The Big Stir: Cooking Up Connection and Community Care

Every fall, the people of all ages and backgrounds gather for something special at Nipawin: The Big Stir. It’s more than just cooking together — it’s about food security, kindness, reconciliation, and building connections that last long after the pots are washed.

This year marks our third annual Big Stir, and once again, our community will come together at the Nipawin Legion on October 9 from 9–5. Volunteers will roll up their sleeves to chop, stir, and season, creating 320 litres of homemade chili for the local food bank. Every bowl we prepare today is a meal that will nourish someone tomorrow.

But the Big Stir isn’t just about food. It’s about stories shared around the table, friendships sparked over ladles and cutting boards, and bridges built between generations and cultures. Ukrainian, Philippine, East Indian, First Nations, Métis, newcomer, and settler families all pitch in — sharing recipes, laughter, and traditions. Elders pass down wisdom, seniors contribute their time and experience, and home school families join in with children eager to learn new skills. Together, we create more than chili: we create memories, reconciliation, and hope.

The Big Stir also strengthens civic pride by showing how much is possible when we work together. From the handiworks group donating their time, to students earning volunteer hours, to veterans shining the pot, the Big Stir is proof that kindness is contagious.

How You Can Be Part of It

• Volunteer: Come for an hour or stay the whole day — there’s lots of veggies to cut.

• Share: Invite a friend, bring your family, and spread the word about the Big Stir.

• Sponsorship: Help cover event costs so more of our energy can go directly into community impact.

  
  

At Rise Up, we believe in the power of community-led action. The Big Stir is one of the many ways we live out our mission: to foster connection, resilience, and kindness in everything we do. Events like this also show why we are seeking charitable status — so we can sustain and grow these moments of impact for years to come.

Thank You to Our Sponsors & Partners

This event is made possible through the generous support of SaskCulture as part of Culture Days, the Community Initiatives Fund (CIFSask), Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) and our long-time friends at Soup Sisters.

A special thank you to our creators, Soup Sisters! The Soup Sisters continue to be the source of our recipes, cheering us on from the sidelines. These events are as special as they are successful because of the soup wisdom we’ve gained from them, and we are so grateful for their continued support in delivering their events to our local community. With 16 years

of experience hosting soup-making events and creating recipes loved around the world, Soup Sisters brings a wealth of heart and wisdom to the table.

Join us on October 9 at the Nipawin Legion. Let’s stir up something good together.