Giving Back
Our Giveback: Community, Connection, and Feeding Byron
At The Gilded Bam Mahjong, we believe that true connection happens when we gather around a table. For us, Mahjong is more than just a beautiful game—it’s a way to build community, share laughs, and look out for one another.
Because community is at the heart of everything we do, every single class registration helps support our neighbors. With each class purchased, a portion of the proceeds is donated directly to the Byron Food Pantry.
Thank You Somerby
We are also profoundly grateful to Somerby Golf Club for their immense generosity. In support of our giveback mission, Somerby has graciously provided their beautiful space for our classes.
Their constant support for local organizations makes them a true cornerstone of the Byron community, and we are honored to partner with a business that shares our passion for lifting up others.
About the Byron Food Pantry
Located at the Byron Community Education Center (CEC), the Byron Food Pantry opened its doors in October 2023.
What started as a grassroots effort by local churches, businesses, the school district, and dedicated individuals has grown into a centralized, modern space dedicated to serving Byron residents.
Thanks to community partnerships, a Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) grant, and incredible local volunteers, the pantry has grown rapidly:
- Fresh & Local: In the summer of 2024, volunteers launched a garden program to provide fresh vegetable options to visitors.
- Expanding Resources: The pantry now offers freezer foods in a limited capacity, ensuring families have access to a wider variety of meals.
- Looking Ahead: The long-term, farm-to-table vision for the pantry includes adding more refrigeration, expanding the garden program, and providing access to cooking and nutrition education.
To learn more about how you can help, visit their website here.
Image above is my friends and our kids packing boxes for the food pantry around the holidays.
Why This Matters
"Growing up in a household where resources were tight, I learned early on what it means to rely on the kindness of those around me. Those early experiences shaped who I am and how I view the world. Today, I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a position where I can give back to the community that gives all of us so much.
This partnership isn't just a business initiative for me; it’s a deeply personal mission to ensure that our neighbors experiencing economic challenges and food insecurity have the support they deserve."
