by Allison Gerdes, Employee Communications Coordinator

The Jeffco Administration & Courts Building Atrium was a bustle with chocolate lovers on Thursday, February 12 for a delicious fundraising event! It's no secret that local food banks are struggling in this economy to keep their shelves stocked while the need for their services continues to rise. To do a small part and help share the love, Jeffco employees participated in a special Valentine's Day themed event called the Chocolate Lovers Extravaganza.

To have a little fun and raise a few dollars, employees volunteered to bring their best chocolate recipes for a bake-off style contest. Participants from many departments took part in this contest and donated their creations to the fundraiser.

With tables of chocolate-themed desserts, it didn't take long for the tasters to line up to sample. For a small donation, people were able to buy a small plate of delicious goodies for $5 or a large plate for $10. Several prospective jurors and other visitors to the county building came by to partake, as well as many employees, who came for a few treats on their breaks and even supplied their office mates with some early Valentine’s Day treats.

More than 30 entries were submitted including: Chocolate Love Cups, Ice Box Chocolate Pudding, You’re 'Marblelous' Cheesecake, and Sassy Lemon Bars (Surprise, No Chocolate!). Proceeds from the event were donated to several Jeffco food banks.

Food banks are struggling in this economy to keep their shelves stocked. If you’d like to help, contact one of the Jeffco food banks to get more information about donation.

To find a food bank in Jefferson County, you can do an Internet search on "Food Banks Jefferson County Colorado" or look them up in your local telephone directory.