BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//BENCHS - ECPv6.18.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:BENCHS X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://benchs.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for BENCHS REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20280312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20281105T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270308T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270308T190000 DTSTAMP:20261021T171150Z CREATED:20250105T004605Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T171150Z UID:4423-1804528800-1804532400@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-7/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270208T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270208T190000 DTSTAMP:20261021T171037Z CREATED:20250105T004305Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T171037Z UID:4420-1802109600-1802113200@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-6/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270111T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270111T190000 DTSTAMP:20261021T170811Z CREATED:20250105T003815Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T170811Z UID:4416-1799690400-1799694000@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-4/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261214T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261214T190000 DTSTAMP:20261021T163824Z CREATED:20250105T005632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T163824Z UID:4432-1797271200-1797274800@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-16/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T190000 DTSTAMP:20260831T054427Z CREATED:20250905T201423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260831T054427Z UID:4720-1796468400-1796497200@benchs.org SUMMARY:Bake Sale December DESCRIPTION:šŸŽ…šŸ»šŸ¤¶šŸ»Celebrate the holiday season with a visit to the BENCHS December Bake Sale on December 6th! Our wonderful volunteer bakers will have a festive assortment of homemade favorites\, including cookies\, bars\, breads\, muffins\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Whether you need treats for a holiday gathering\, a gift for someone special\, or a tasty surprise for your four-legged friend\, youā€™ll find plenty to choose from. \nLooking for something other than baked goods? Weā€™ll also have a selection of non-food items available\, giving everyone a chance to shop while supporting the animals at BENCHS. \nEvery purchase helps provide food\, medical care\, enrichment\, and daily comfort for homeless dogs and cats as they wait for loving homes. \nWhile youā€™re there\, stop by and say hello to Terri\, our Shelter Manager\, and learn how you can make a difference through volunteering\, fostering\, or supporting BENCHS. \nPayments accepted: Cash\, check\, and Venmo\nTip: Come earlyā€”items sell fast! \nCanā€™t make it? You can still help by sharing the event or joining us at a future bake sale. \nThank you for making the holidays brighter for the animals at BENCHS! \nStop in during your holiday pet supply shopping!šŸŽ„ URL:https://benchs.org/event/bake-sale-december/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/December-Bake-Sale-Flyer-e1792300747467.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261121T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261121T190000 DTSTAMP:20260831T045445Z CREATED:20250905T201139Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260831T045445Z UID:4719-1795258800-1795287600@benchs.org SUMMARY:Bake Sale November DESCRIPTION:šŸ¦ƒA sweet way to give thanksā€”treats for people that help BENCHS cats and dogs! (Pet treats available while supplies last.) \nCelebrate the season of gratitude with a visit to the BENCHS November Bake Sale on November 21st! Our wonderful volunteer bakers will have a delicious assortment of homemade favorites\, including cookies\, bars\, breads\, muffins\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Whether youā€™re looking for a cozy autumn treat or something special for your four-legged friend\, youā€™ll find plenty to enjoy. \nLooking for something other than baked goods? Weā€™ll also have a selection of non-food items available\, so everyone can shop while supporting the animals at BENCHS. \nEvery purchase helps provide food\, medical care\, enrichment\, and daily comfort for homeless dogs and cats as they wait for loving homes. \nWhile youā€™re there\, stop by and say hello to Terri\, our Shelter Manager\, and learn how you can make a difference through volunteering\, fostering\, or supporting BENCHS. \nPayments accepted: Cash\, check\, and Venmo\nTip: Come earlyā€”items sell fast! \nCanā€™t make it? You can still help by sharing the event or joining us at a future bake sale. \nThank you for supporting BENCHS and giving homeless animals even more to be thankful for this season! \nPick some up when youā€™re out for pet supplies!šŸ„§šŸ‚ URL:https://benchs.org/event/bake-sale-november/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Nov-Bake-Sale-Flyer-e1792300689204.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261109T190000 DTSTAMP:20261021T163658Z CREATED:20250105T005539Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T163658Z UID:4431-1794247200-1794250800@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-15/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261101 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261120 DTSTAMP:20261009T060829Z CREATED:20261005T120819Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261009T060829Z UID:3176-1793491200-1795132799@benchs.org SUMMARY:Give to the Max Day DESCRIPTION:BENCHSā€™ GTM DAY PAGE\n \nBENCHS is again participating in the annual Give to the Max giving event taking place this year starting on Nov. 1st and culminating on Thursday\, Nov. 19. \nBENCHS has come so far in the past two years ā€” and itā€™s all thanks to the incredible generosity of caring people. In 2025\,Ā 732 animalsĀ came through our doors ā€“ 505 cats and 227 dogs. We are on track to serve just as many\, or more\, in 2026. Ā This includes veterinary care for every animal that is sick or injured. Ā All animals are vaccinated\, chipped and spayed or neutered. Each day every animal is exercised\, fed and cared for. This is costly. We need your help to continue to save lives. \nEvery time BENCHS answers a call\, reunites a lost pet\, welcomes a surrender\, or provides food through our pantry\, weā€™re making a difference ā€” for one animal\, one person\, and one community at a time. \nHelp Build What Comes NextĀ  \nBENCHS has big goals for the future\, but reliable\, ongoing support is essential to make this possible. With sustainable funding\, we hope to expand programs that could: \nšŸ¾ Help families afford spay and neuter services.\nšŸ¾ Support domestic-abuse victims who need help keeping their pets safe.\nšŸ¾ Assist with county stray dogs and cats who currently have little or no dedicated funding.\nšŸ¾ Strengthen pet-retention programs so fewer animals need to enter the shelter. \nOur aging building also needs costly maintenance including a new HVAC system\, plumbing repairs\, and improvements to dog kennels and cat condos. Your support helps keep BENCHS safe\, comfortable\, and functional for the animals in our careā€”and ready for those who will need us next. \nWe are deeply grateful for everyone who supports our fundraisers\, bake sales\, and community donation events. But these efforts alone cannot keep pace with the rising costs of veterinary care\, food\, medications\, staffing\, and emergency treatment. \nPlease help keep our doors open to every animal who needs us. This year\, our Give to the Max goal is to raise $100\,000. Whether you give $5 or $5\,000\, every dollar ensures that cats and dogs in our community have a safe place to landā€”and a chance at the future they deserve. Ā Your help equals their hope. \nhttps://www.givemn.org/organization/Benchs\nDONATE FOR GTM DAY HERE URL:https://benchs.org/event/give-to-the-max/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/square-blue-and-green-e1791525030535.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Executive Director":MAILTO:info@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T140000 DTSTAMP:20261002T001322Z CREATED:20261002T001322Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261002T001322Z UID:5121-1792832400-1792850400@benchs.org SUMMARY:Fleet Fest DESCRIPTION:Shop and treat! \nFleet Farm vendors will be set up through out the store\, with decorated stalls and some may even be dressed up.\n(BENCHS will have a table here!) \nBring your kids to trick or treat the vendors while you shop! \nFirst 50 kids will get a bag for their treats. \nTrick or Treat portion is from 9 a.m. ā€“ 12 p.m. URL:https://benchs.org/event/fleet-fest/ LOCATION:Fleet Farm\, 1850 Premier Dr\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Fleet-Fm.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261023T190000 DTSTAMP:20261018T053927Z CREATED:20261018T045025Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261018T053927Z UID:5160-1792753200-1792782000@benchs.org SUMMARY:Clothing Sale DESCRIPTION:HUGE SALE.Ā  $1 FINDS.Ā  ALL FOR THE ANIMALS.\n\n\n\nBENCHS is doing something weā€™ve NEVER done beforeā€”and itā€™s going to be EPIC!\n\n\nWeā€™ve teamed up with Platoā€™s Closet ā€“ Mankato to bring you nearly 1\,000 name-brand clothing items in ADULT SIZES for just $1 EACH!\n\n\nAnd thereā€™s more! Weā€™ll also have shoes\, dog clothes\, collars\, phone cases\, and other goodies available. Come refresh your wardrobe\, find a little something for your pup\, and turn your bargain hunting into lifesaving support!\n\n\n\nFriday\, October 23\n11 a.m. ā€“ 7 p.m.\nBENCHS | 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\n\n\n\n$10 cover charge\nEach item is just $1!\nCash & Venmo accepted\n\nALL proceeds benefit BENCHS!\n\n\n\nA huge thank-you to Platoā€™s Closet Mankato for helping make this first-ever sale possible. Every admission and every purchase helps us care for animals waiting for families of their own.\n\n\n\nGrab your shopping crew\, bring your bargain-hunting energy\, and get ready for an EPIC day of shopping for a cause!\n\n\nTag your thrifting friends\, share this event\, and letā€™s make our first sale HUGE! URL:https://benchs.org/event/clothing-sale/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/IMG_6949-e1792300273457.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261019T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261019T190000 DTSTAMP:20261012T181849Z CREATED:20261012T180004Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261012T181849Z UID:5138-1792425600-1792436400@benchs.org SUMMARY:Chick-fil-A Fundraiser for BENCHS DESCRIPTION:Have dinner at the new Chick-fil-A restaurant near the River Hills Mall in Mankato and help fundraise for BENCHS!šŸ— \nBENCHS will receive 10% of traditional sales and 20% of mobile orders from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday\, October 19th. \nThanks Chick-fil-A for your support of BENCHS! URL:https://benchs.org/event/chick-fil-a/ LOCATION:Chick-Fil-A Mankato\, 1870 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Chick-Fil-A-Fundraiser-e1792300949571.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Executive Director":MAILTO:info@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261017T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261017T190000 DTSTAMP:20261016T165255Z CREATED:20260831T044806Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261016T165255Z UID:5086-1792234800-1792263600@benchs.org SUMMARY:Bake Sale October DESCRIPTION:Celebrate the season with a visit to the BENCHS October Bake Sale on October 17th! Our wonderful volunteer bakers will have a delicious assortment of homemade favorites\, including cookies\, bars\, breads\, muffins\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Whether youā€™re craving a cozy fall treat or shopping for your four-legged friend\, youā€™ll find plenty to enjoy. šŸŽƒ \nLooking for something other than baked goods? Weā€™ll also have a selection of non-food items available\, so everyone can shop while supporting the animals at BENCHS.šŸ‘» \nEvery purchase helps provide food\, medical care\, enrichment\, and daily comfort for homeless dogs and cats as they wait for loving homes. \nWhile youā€™re there\, stop by and say hello to Terri\, our Shelter Manager\, and learn how you can make a difference through volunteering\, fostering\, or supporting BENCHS. \nPayments accepted: Cash\, check\, and Venmo \nTip: Come earlyā€”items sell fast! \nCanā€™t make it? You can still help by sharing the event or joining us at a future bake sale. \nThank you for supporting BENCHS and the animals we care for!šŸ¾ URL:https://benchs.org/event/bake-sale-october/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Oct-Bake-Sale-Flyer-REV-e1792300605222.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261012T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261012T200000 DTSTAMP:20260330T055516Z CREATED:20250105T005400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T055516Z UID:4430-1791828000-1791835200@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-14/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260914T200000 DTSTAMP:20260330T055413Z CREATED:20250105T005313Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T055413Z UID:4429-1789408800-1789416000@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-13/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260912T190000 DTSTAMP:20260701T053741Z CREATED:20260625T010140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T053741Z UID:4989-1789210800-1789239600@benchs.org SUMMARY:Bake Sale September DESCRIPTION:Celebrate the start of fall with a visit to the BENCHS September Bake Sale on September 12th! Our wonderful volunteer bakers will be serving up a delicious assortment of homemade favorites\, including cookies\, bars\, breads\, muffins\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Whether youā€™re looking for a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or something special for your four-legged friend\, youā€™ll find plenty to choose from. \nLooking for something other than baked goods? Weā€™ll also have a selection of non-food items available\, giving everyone a chance to shop while supporting the animals at BENCHS. \nEvery purchase helps provide food\, medical care\, enrichment\, and daily comfort for homeless dogs and cats as they wait for loving homes. \nWhile youā€™re there\, stop by and say hello to Terri\, our Shelter Manager\, and learn more about the many ways you can make a difference through volunteering\, fostering\, or supporting BENCHS. \nPayments accepted: Cash\, check\, and Venmo\nTip: Come early ā€” items sell fast! \nCanā€™t make it? You can still help by sharing this event or joining us at a future bake sale. \nThank you for supporting BENCHS and the animals we care for! URL:https://benchs.org/event/bake-sale-september-2/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Sept-Bake-Sale-Flyer-e1785726734442.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T170000 DTSTAMP:20260803T030218Z CREATED:20260730T062229Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T030218Z UID:5038-1787396400-1787418000@benchs.org SUMMARY:Mankato Art Crawl DESCRIPTION:The Mankato Art Crawl is a vibrant community event celebrating local art.Ā It features local artists showcasing their work in various business and community locations throughout Mankato. The event includes live music\, art for sale\, and interactive demonstrations\, making it a lively experience for art enthusiasts and the general public alike. \nAs part of the Mankato Art Crawl\, Minnesota writer and photographer J. Anderson will share readings from her memoirs at the Carnegie Art Center on Aug. 22 at 11 a.m. and at 1 p.m. She is the recipient of a 2026 Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Individuals grant. All donations collected during the readings will benefit BENCHS. \nThe memoir\, No Bad Days: On Nature\, A Dog\, and Devotion\, began as a blog in 2020 and 2021\, Anderson posted stories and photos from walks with Santiago\, an adopted mixed-breed dog\, in parks and along trails throughout the Twin Cities and surrounding suburbs. \nDuring a time marked by fear brought on by a global pandemic\, civil unrest\, and a warming climate\, Anderson wanted to offer a different perspective on the world and began developing the blog into a manuscript. Their hope is that the words and images convey that life itself\, regardless of circumstance\, is worthy of deep devotion. \nCall for Art:\n\n\nCommunity members are invited to share ā€œImages of nature and animals that inspire resilience and joy\,ā€ as a part of the Mankato Art Crawl festivities! Bring your photos\, paintings\, or other artwork depicting nature and/or animals to be displayed in the galleries for a pop-up showcase. Community members may bring up to two pieces for display. \nDrop off: Friday\, August 21\, Noon\nArt Crawl: Saturday\, August 22\, 11 a.m. ā€“ 5 p.m.\nPick-up: Saturday\, August 22\, 5 p.m. (or by appointment)\n\nCLICK HERE FOR MANKATO ART CRAWL SIGN UP FORM\n\n\nNote: works may be for sale\, with a 35% commission to the Carnegie Art Center URL:https://benchs.org/event/mankato-art-crawl/ LOCATION:Carnegie Art Center\, 120 S Broad St.\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_6428-e1785726494148.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260810T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260810T200000 DTSTAMP:20260330T055133Z CREATED:20250105T005140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T055133Z UID:4428-1786384800-1786392000@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-12/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260808T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260808T190000 DTSTAMP:20260803T031352Z CREATED:20250731T101852Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T031352Z UID:4691-1786186800-1786215600@benchs.org SUMMARY:Bake Sale August DESCRIPTION:šŸŒ» Soak Up Summer at the BENCHS August Bake Sale! šŸŖšŸ¾ \nJoin us for our monthly BENCHS Bake Sale\, where every bite helps animals right here in our community! \nOur amazing group of 20ā€“30+ volunteer bakers brings a delicious variety of homemade treats to every saleā€”cookies\, bars\, breads\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Whether youā€™re craving something sweet or shopping for your pup\, thereā€™s something for everyone! šŸ‰ \nNot into sweets? No worries! We also offer non-food items\, so you can still stop by and support BENCHS in a way that works for you. \nWhy it matters: Funds raised go directly toward medical care\, food\, enrichment\, and daily operations for the animals who depend on us. Every purchase makes a difference. \nBonus: Meet Terri\, our Shelter Manager\, and learn how you can get involvedā€”through volunteering\, fostering\, or other meaningful ways to support BENCHS. \nPayments Accepted: Cash\, Check\, Venmo šŸ’µšŸ’³Tip: Come earlyā€”favorites go quickly! \nCanā€™t make it? You can still support by sharing this event or joining us at a future bake sale. Thank you for being part of the BENCHS family and helping us care for animals in need! šŸ¶šŸ±šŸ’› URL:https://benchs.org/event/bake-sale-august/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/August-Bake-Sale-Flyer-e1785726689517.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260713T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260713T200000 DTSTAMP:20260330T055002Z CREATED:20250105T004939Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T055002Z UID:4427-1783965600-1783972800@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-11/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260711T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260711T190000 DTSTAMP:20260428T215546Z CREATED:20250531T044042Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T215546Z UID:4606-1783767600-1783796400@benchs.org SUMMARY:July Bake Sale DESCRIPTION:šŸŽ† Celebrate Summer at the BENCHS Bake Sale ā€“ July 11! šŸŖšŸ¾ \nJoin us on July 11 for our monthly BENCHS Bake Sale\, where every sweet treat helps animals right here in our community! \nOur talented crew of 20ā€“30+ volunteer bakers will be bringing a wide variety of homemade goodiesā€”cookies\, bars\, breads\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Whether youā€™re picking up something for yourself or your pup\, thereā€™s something for everyone! šŸ“ \nNot into sweets? No problem! Weā€™ll also have non-food items available\, so you can still shop and support BENCHS in your own way. \nWhy it matters: Every dollar raised helps provide medical care\, food\, enrichment\, and daily support for the animals who need us most. Your support truly makes a difference. \nBonus: Stop by and meet Terri\, our Shelter Manager\, and learn how you can get involvedā€”whether through volunteering\, fostering\, or other meaningful ways to support BENCHS. \nPayments Accepted: Cash\, Check\, Venmo šŸ’µšŸ’³Tip: Come earlyā€”items sell fast! \nCanā€™t make it? You can still help by sharing this event or joining us at a future bake sale. Thank you for supporting BENCHS and the animals we care for! šŸ¶šŸ±šŸ’™ URL:https://benchs.org/event/july-bake-sale/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/July-Bake-Sale-Flyer.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260620T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260620T190000 DTSTAMP:20260428T214912Z CREATED:20250602T013926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T214912Z UID:4608-1781953200-1781982000@benchs.org SUMMARY:Bake Sale June DESCRIPTION:ā˜€ļø Savor Summer at the BENCHS June Bake Sale! šŸ‹šŸ¾ \nJoin us for our monthly BENCHS Bake Sale\, where every cookie\, loaf\, and sweet summer treat supports animals right here in our community! \nWith 20ā€“30+ talented volunteer bakers at each event\, youā€™ll find an incredible spread of homemade goodiesā€”cookies\, bars\, breads\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Thereā€™s truly something for everyone! šŸŒ¼ \nNot into sweets? Weā€™ve got you covered with a variety of non-food items\, so you can still shop and support BENCHS in your own way. \nWhy it matters: Every dollar raised helps provide medical care\, food\, enrichment\, and daily support for the animals who rely on us most. These bake sales make a real difference. \nBonus: Stop by and meet Terri\, our Shelter Manager! Sheā€™d love to share how you can get involvedā€”whether through volunteering\, fostering\, or supporting BENCHS in other meaningful ways. \nPayments Accepted: Cash\, Check\, Venmo šŸ’µšŸ’³Tip: Come earlyā€”items go fast! \nCanā€™t make it this time? You can still help by sharing this event or joining us at a future sale. Your support means everything to usā€”and to the animals we serve. šŸ¶šŸ±šŸ’› URL:https://benchs.org/event/bake-sale-june/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Event,Fundraiser,News & Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/June-Bake-Sale-Flyer.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260608T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260608T200000 DTSTAMP:20260330T054819Z CREATED:20250105T004841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T054819Z UID:4426-1780941600-1780948800@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-10/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260606T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260606T170000 DTSTAMP:20260603T183137Z CREATED:20260428T221707Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T183137Z UID:4915-1780736400-1780765200@benchs.org SUMMARY:BENCHS Plant Sale DESCRIPTION:šŸŒæ Grow Something Good at the BENCHS Plant Sale ā€“ Saturday\, June 6! šŸŒøšŸ¾ \nJoin us on June 6 for a special BENCHS Plant Sale\, where every plant you bring home helps animals in our care! \nPlant sale is coming up!Drop off Wednesday June 3rd. 9-5Ring door bell #1. And we will unload at the back of the driveway.Please have them potted and labeledAlso looking for garden decor and other items \nBrowse a beautiful selection of plants perfect for your home and gardenā€”annuals\, perennials\, houseplants\, and more. Whether youā€™re a seasoned gardener or just getting started\, youā€™re sure to find something to love. šŸŒ¼šŸŒ± \nšŸŒ± Plant Donations Needed!Help us make this event bloom by donating plants! \n\nDrop-off: June 3\, from 9 to 5 at the shelter. Ring doorbell at Door #1. We will help you unload at the back of the driveway.\nPlease label each plant with the type and whether it is an annual or perennial\nPlants should be potted in individual containers\nAlso accepting garden decor and other gardening items.\nQuestions? Email: info@benchs.org\n\nWhy it matters: Proceeds from the sale go directly toward medical care\, food\, enrichment\, and daily operations for the dogs and cats at BENCHS. Your support helps give them the care and second chances they deserve. \nBonus: Stop by and learn more about how you can get involvedā€”through volunteering\, fostering\, adopting\, or donating. Every connection makes a difference! \nPayments Accepted: Cash\, Check\, Credit Cards\, and Venmo šŸ’µšŸ’³Tip: Come early for the best selectionā€”plants will go quickly! \nCanā€™t make it? You can still support by sharing this event or stopping by another fundraiser. Thank you for helping us grow a brighter future for animals in need! šŸŒ·šŸ¶šŸ± URL:https://benchs.org/event/benchs-plant-sale/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Plant-Sale-Revised2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T190000 DTSTAMP:20260330T054502Z CREATED:20260330T054208Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T054502Z UID:4893-1780138800-1780167600@benchs.org SUMMARY:Bake Sale May DESCRIPTION:Join us for our monthly BENCHS Bake Sale\, where every cookie\, loaf\, and sweet treat helps animals right here in our community!\n\nWeā€™re proud to have 20ā€“30+ volunteer bakers at every fundraiser\, creating a huge variety of homemade goodies including cookies\, bars\, breads\, cupcakes\, dog treats\, and more. Thereā€™s truly something for everyone!šŸ’\n\nNot into sweets? No problem! We also have non-food items for sale\, so there are plenty of ways to support BENCHS.šŸŖ\nWhy it matters: Funds raised help cover medical care\, food\, enrichment\, and daily operations for the animals who need us most. These bake sales truly make a difference.\nĀ Bonus: Come meet Terri\, the Shelter Manager\, and learn more about how you can get involved\, volunteer\, foster\, or support BENCHS in meaningful ways!\nĀ Payments Accepted: Cash\, Check\, Venmo šŸ’µšŸ’³Ā First come\, first served ā€“ items sell fast\n\nCanā€™t make it but still want to support? Share this event with friends or stop by another month. Your support means the world to us and to the animals we serve.Ā Thank you for being part of the BENCHS family! URL:https://benchs.org/event/bake-sale-may-2/ LOCATION:Pet Expo\, 1800 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/May-Bake-Sale-Flyer.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260518T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260518T150000 DTSTAMP:20260507T111636Z CREATED:20260507T111102Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T111636Z UID:4938-1779105600-1779116400@benchs.org SUMMARY:Shop for BENCHS DESCRIPTION:Join BENCHS for a special shopping event at the Mankato Hilltop Hy-Vee! \nšŸ—“ May 18 | šŸ•› Noon ā€“ 3 p.m. \nShop in-store for much-needed items for BENCHS cats\, dogs\, staff\, and volunteers\, then drop donations off in front of Starbucks inside the store. \nMeet the BENCHS Executive Director\, pick up aĀ shopping list of needed items\, and learn more about how your support helps local animals every day! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEvery donation helps provide comfort\, care\, enrichment\, and daily support for the animals at BENCHS ā€” and for the dedicated staff and volunteers who help them heal and find loving homes. Thank You! URL:https://benchs.org/event/shop-for-benchs/ LOCATION:HyVee Hilltop\, 2010 Adams St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=application/pdf:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Shop-for-BENCHS.pdf END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260515 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260601 DTSTAMP:20260516T043557Z CREATED:20260516T023437Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260516T043557Z UID:4945-1778803200-1780271999@benchs.org SUMMARY:Wags Wiggles Walmart DESCRIPTION:šŸ¾ Wags\, Wiggles & Walmart šŸ›’ \nSupply Drive to Support BENCHS During the Month of May! \nJoin BENCHS for Wags\, Wiggles & Walmart\, a special shopping event all month long at Walmart in Mankato! \nShop for much-needed supplies to support enrichment for the shelter animals and to help maintain the BENCHS building and grounds. Every donation helps provide comfort\, care\, enrichment\, and daily essentials for the animals waiting for loving homes. \nStop by Mankato Walmart\, purchase items from the BENCHS Shopping List\, and help make a difference for local shelter animals throughout the month of May. \nEvery item donated helps BENCHS to continue saying ā€œyesā€ to animals in need ā€” and supports the dedicated staff and volunteers who care for them every day. \nWalmart.com orders can be dropped off or shipped to BENCHS at 1250 N. River Drive\, Mankato\, MN 56001 \nShop with purpose. Help local animals thrive. Thank you for supporting BENCHS! šŸ§”šŸ¾ URL:https://benchs.org/event/wags-wiggles-walmart/ LOCATION:Walmart Supercenter Mankato\, 1881 E Madison Ave\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/IMG_1119.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Executive Director":MAILTO:info@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260511T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260511T200000 DTSTAMP:20251231T083314Z CREATED:20250105T004753Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251231T083314Z UID:4425-1778522400-1778529600@benchs.org SUMMARY:Board Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://benchs.org/event/board-meeting-9/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Board Meetings ORGANIZER;CN="Board Agenda":MAILTO:boardagenda@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260507T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260509T120000 DTSTAMP:20260430T000144Z CREATED:20260429T082321Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T000144Z UID:4923-1778140800-1778328000@benchs.org SUMMARY:Paws & Petals DESCRIPTION:Remember those beautiful Motherā€™s Day flowers from last year? Theyā€™re back! šŸŒøšŸ¾ \nPaws & Petals returnsā€”this time at the Rummage Sale at the Mankato Curling Club. While you shop for treasures\, you can also pick up stunning flowers perfect for Motherā€™s Day (or just because). No pre-orders. Payment must be made with cash/check/Venmo. \nDonā€™t miss this chance to shop\, support\, and bring home something special!šŸ’ URL:https://benchs.org/event/paws-petals/ LOCATION:Mankato Curling Club\, 600 Hope St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Mothers-Day2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260504 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260510 DTSTAMP:20260429T083355Z CREATED:20250924T050027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T083355Z UID:4771-1777852800-1778371199@benchs.org SUMMARY:Rummage Sale DESCRIPTION:DONATE ā€“ SHOP ā€“ VOLUNTEER FOR A GREAT CAUSE!\nSign Up to Volunteer Here: \nThe BENCHS Rummage Sale is our largest fundraiser of the year! All proceeds from this event will be used for the daily care of the homeless cats and dogs at BENCHS. Help us spread the word ā€“ click here for a Downloadable Flyer. \nDONATIONSšŸ“ššŸ„£\nRummage Sale Donations ā€“ When you do your spring cleaning\, keep BENCHS in mind for donations! We cannot accept items at the shelter due to limited storage. So drop donations at the Mankato Curling Club (600 Hope St.) during specified drop off times. Volunteers will be available to help unload and set up.Ā \nDonation Times: Mon.\, Tues.\, and Wed. (May 4\, 5\, & 6):Ā  8 a.m. ā€“ 6 p.m. Only at the Mankato Curling Club \nAccepting: Toys\, Books\, Games\, Tools\, Pet Supplies\, Decor\, Kitchen Items\, Small Appliances\, Lamps\, End Tables\, Pillows\, Purses\, Jewelry\, Crafts\, Towels\, Blankets\, Rugs\, etc. No soiled or damaged goods. \nNot Accepting: No Christmas Trees\, Exercise Equipment\, Major Appliances\, Clothing\, TVs\, Computers/Accessories\, Child Car Seats\, Entertainment Centers\, Large Furniture\, Beds\, Couches or Baby Furniture. There is no outdoor plant sale this year\, but some house plants are accepted. \nBENCHS reserves the right to refuse some items.šŸ¾ \nSHOPšŸ›ļø\nCome shop for a paws-itively great cause!šŸ¾ Most items are available for a free-will donationā€”give what you can and feel good doing it. \nBring your own bags or boxes if youā€™re able\, and get ready to treasure hunt!Ā Cash\, Check\, Credit Card\, and Venmo are accepted for your convenience.šŸ’µšŸ’³ \nEvery purchase helps support the cats and dogs at BENCHSā€”so shop with heart and give generously!šŸ’• \nSHOPPING HOURS:Thursday & Friday (May 7 & 8): 9 a.m. ā€“ 6 p.m.Saturday (May 9): 9 a.m. ā€“ Noon \nThank you for making a difference for our furry friends! šŸ¶šŸ±šŸ¾ \nšŸ’Also ā€“ this year we will be holding our Pets & Petals Flower Sale DURING the Rummage Sale! (Motherā€™s Day is Sunday!) \nVOLUNTEER SIGN UPšŸ“‹\nLast yearā€™s sale was a huge success thanks to the support of our many volunteers! Volunteers are needed for set-up\, during the sale\, and tear down. \nSet-up dates are Monday\, May 4 to Wednesday\, May 6\nSale dates are Thursday and Friday\, May 7 and 8\, and Saturday\, May 9\nTear-down will take place after the sale on Saturday \nThe BENCHS Annual Rummage Sale Volunteer Sign-up Website is now live! Please click on the button below to sign up for as many shifts as you are able. If you have questions\, please call (507) 625-6373. šŸ¾\nSign Up to Volunteer Here:\nĀ  URL:https://benchs.org/event/rummage-sale/ LOCATION:Mankato Curling Club\, 600 Hope St\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraiser ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Rummage-Cover.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260501 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260601 DTSTAMP:20260502T044828Z CREATED:20260502T044828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260502T044828Z UID:4932-1777593600-1780271999@benchs.org SUMMARY:Clear the Shelter DESCRIPTION:Adopt a cat for just $25! \nDuring the month of May\, BENCHS is offering a reduced adoption fee of $25 on select cats to help more pets find loving homes and open up space in our shelter! \nOur reduced adoption fees will support cats who often wait the longest for homes\, including: \n\nLong-term residents (60+ days)\nSenior cats (7+ years)\nBonded pairs\nFIV+ cats\nCats on prescription diets\n\nApproved adoption application required before meeting any of our cats. \nĀ  URL:https://benchs.org/event/clear-the-shelter/ LOCATION:BENCHS\, 1250 North River Drive\, Mankato\, MN\, 56001\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://benchs.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/IMG_0953.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="BENCHS Manager":MAILTO:manager@benchs.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR