Hey Elevate Fam,

The shadows are getting longer, the candy aisles are fully stocked, and somewhere in the distance... a skeleton decoration is rattling in the desert wind. That’s right…spooky season has arrived in Vegas, whether the weather agrees or not.

While other places might be crunching leaves and layering scarves, we're embracing the spirit of the season in our own way: costumes in the AC, pumpkin decor in the palm trees, and just enough eerie energy to keep things interesting.

At Elevate Diversity, October is all about community with a twist: a little mysterious, a little magical, and a lot of fun. This month, we’re gathering for a Halloween-themed happy hour (costumes encouraged, good vibes required) and giving back through a food distribution volunteer event that reminds us what real community care looks like.

So whether you're here for the boos or here to give back, we've got something for you.

Let’s make this October one to remember: spooky, spirited, and full of connection. 👻

Food Distribution with The Just One Project!💪

✨ Start your Saturday with purpose! Join Elevate Diversity & The Just One Project every 3rd Saturday of the month in 2025 for a morning of impact and connection. We'll be at JD Smith Middle School to help unload food pallets and distribute them to those in need. Whether you’re assisting with client check-ins or helping with food distribution, your efforts will make a real difference in the community. 💛

Did you know?
🍽 1 in 7 Southern Nevadans faces hunger? That’s over 341,000 people.
🌍 Communities of color are hit hardest due to ongoing social and economic barriers.
Your helping hands can make a real difference!

📅 October 18th
⏰7:30 AM – 10:30 AM
📍JD Smith Middle School, 1880 E Stanley Ave, North Las Vegas, NV 89030

👟 What to bring: comfy clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and your best smile! 🌞
🔗 30 spots available each month. Register now to lock in your spot! (No need to select a specific date)

Halloween costumes this month are welcome! Let’s keep the spooky festivities going, even while giving back!! 👻🔮

Let’s show up and #VolunteerLikeABoss 💪

Must RSVP through Elevate Diveristy and the Just one Project!

Register with The Just One Project Here!

Volunteer at the Las Vegas Marathon!🏅

Join us for an unforgettable morning of high energy, big smiles, and community spirit as we volunteer at the Las Vegas Marathon Finish Line!

📅 Date: Sunday, October 26th
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
📍 Location: Las Vegas Blvd & Fremont St (Finish Line)
We'll be posted up right where the magic happens to hand out water, snacks, cold towels, and shiny finisher medals to the amazing runners crossing the finish line. Trust us, their faces when they get that medal? Pure gold. 🏅✨

💧 What we'll be doing:

• Handing out water & electrolyte drinks

• Offering snacks, fruit, and post-race recovery treats

• Awarding medals to finishers

• Cheering on runners as they cross the line with pride! 🎊

Whether you're a cheerleader at heart, a high-five expert, or just love being part of something awesome, come out and help us make the finish line a celebration to remember!
Let’s bring the hype and support these runners in style —Vegas style. 🎲💥 

Halloween Happy Hour!🍸🧛

Got no Halloween plans?
No problem! We got you covered...
🎃Join us at Halloween Happy Hour at Cork & Thorn

📍 70 W Imperial Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102
📅 Friday, October 31st | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Calling all ghosts, ghouls, and goblins… it’s time to get spooky! 🧛‍♀️🍹 Join us at Cork & Thorn for a wickedly fun Halloween Happy Hour you won’t want to miss. Whether you're new to town or just looking to scare up some new friends, this is your chance to mix, mingle, and toast to a hauntingly good time.

✨ What to expect:

• Chilling cocktails & boo-tiful vibes

• Music, laughter, and eerie energy

• Great conversation with fun, friendly people

• A costume-friendly crowd (seriously...bring your BEST look 👻🦇)

🕷️ Whether you’re a vampire in velvet or a ghost in glitter, come dressed to impress! Let’s eat, drink, and be scary together.
RSVP now... if you dare. 🕸️

Highlights from our September Events!

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Season Has Begun!

Although Día de los Muertos is officially celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, the season starts to take shape in late October. Across Latin American communities and here in Las Vegas, the weeks before the holiday are filled with preparation, reflection, and celebration, offering many ways to engage with its spirit early.

A Living History of Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos blends ancient indigenous customs with Spanish Catholic traditions. Long before colonization, civilizations like the Aztecs honored ancestors through ceremonies dedicated to death and rebirth. When the Spanish arrived, these practices merged with All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day, creating the holiday as we know it today.

This celebration isn’t about mourning but memory. It’s a joyful time to honor those who have passed, reflect on their lives, and keep their spirits alive through stories, food, and gathering. For many, it marks when the veil between the living and the dead is at its thinnest.

Traditions That Keep Memory Alive

At the heart of Día de los Muertos are ofrendas, altars decorated with photos, candles, marigolds, incense, and offerings like food and keepsakes. Marigolds are believed to guide spirits back with their bright color and scent, and pan de muerto, a special bread, is a key treat.

Families clean and decorate graves, sometimes keeping vigil through the night. Face painting with intricate skull designs symbolizes the idea that death is part of life. Communities come together to share stories, music, and joy, not just to remember the dead, but to celebrate their lasting impact.

Where to Celebrate: Día de los Muertos Events in Las Vegas!

Día de los Muertos Free Festival – Downtown Las Vegas

Date & Time: November 1, 2025, 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Carolyn G. Goodman Plaza, Las Vegas Civic Center

This free city-sponsored event features local and guest artists, family-friendly activities, artisan vendors, traditional altars (ofrendas), and face painting. A colorful celebration of life and remembrance.

Día de los Muertos Festival – Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza

Date & Time: November 1, 2025, 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: 770 Twin Lakes Dr, Las Vegas

A community celebration of Mexican heritage and remembrance with live performances, cultural presentations, food vendors, and traditional altars.

Día de Muertos at the Springs Preserve

Date & Time: November 7-9, 2025, 5:00 - 9:00 PM (each night)

Location: Springs Preserve, Las Vegas

One of the most immersive Day of the Dead experiences in the city! Enjoy live mariachi, ballet folklórico, community altars, face painting, food trucks, and hands-on cultural activities.
🎟 Admission required.

Día de los Muertos Celebration & Concert – NSU Henderson

Date & Time: October 30, 2025, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Nevada State University, Henderson Campus

A family-friendly evening of music, dance, and altars hosted by NSU. Headlined by GRAMMY-winning group Flor de Toloache, plus performances, food, and cultural displays.

Trick or Treat?! See you next month!

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