Community leaders, supporters, and advocates gathered at Bonton Farms for an evening centered on connection, purpose, and impact during the organization’s Soulshine: Summertime Celebration.

The event brought together residents, partners, and supporters committed to advancing the mission of Bonton Farms, a South Dallas nonprofit dedicated to improving health, creating economic opportunities, and fostering community development in historically underserved neighborhoods.

On the eve of Juneteenth, guests enjoyed an atmosphere of fellowship and celebration while learning more about the ongoing work taking place within the Bonton community. The fundraiser highlighted the power of collective action and the importance of investing in neighborhoods through relationships, resources, and long-term commitment.

Guests beat the Texas heat while enjoying cocktails and Southern-inspired appetizers, including fried green tomatoes and deviled eggs, before sitting down for a meal prepared by the Bonton Farms kitchen. The dinner featured classic Southern favorites such as barbecue, potato salad, baked beans, and pasta salad, giving attendees a true taste of community and hospitality. Hosted under the leadership of Mark Jones, President and CEO of Bonton Farms, the evening highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to cultivate opportunity, wellness, and economic empowerment throughout South Dallas. He also expressed gratitude to the many individuals and organizations whose support helped make the event possible. Special recognition was given to event Co-Chair Larshá Thomas and SouthState Bank for their leadership and commitment to community engagement. Additional appreciation was extended to beverage sponsor Tower Club, K Cook Music for providing the evening’s soundtrack, and the Bonton Farms staff whose efforts helped bring the event to life.

More than a fundraiser, Soulshine served as a reminder of the impact that can be achieved when people come together around a shared vision. Guests spent the evening building new connections, strengthening existing relationships, and supporting initiatives designed to create lasting change across South Dallas. One of the evening’s most impactful discussions centered on Grocery Connect and its mission to advance food equity throughout South Dallas. Attendees learned how the organization partners with Kroger and utilizes trusted community hubs, including Bonton Farms, the Dallas Bethlehem Center, and ICDC, as convenient pickup locations for fresh groceries. The conversation also touched on Bonton Farms’ upcoming retail location at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, which is expected to open later this summer. While the project has already garnered significant public attention, its mention served as another reminder of the organization’s continued growth and expanding influence, bringing the story and products of Bonton Farms to a broader audience while creating new opportunities to support its mission.

As the evening came to a close, attendees reflected on the power of partnership and the importance of continuing to invest in neighborhoods where opportunity and resources have historically been limited. The celebration underscored Bonton Farms’ belief that meaningful change happens when communities are empowered from within and supported by people willing to stand alongside them.

The spirit of Soulshine was evident throughout the evening, leaving guests with a renewed commitment to supporting the work of Bonton Farms and helping build a healthier, more connected future for South Dallas.

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