
LEONARDTOWN, Md. – Alissa Kircher, a passionate advocate for animal welfare and plant-based living, has been on a transformative journey since 2013 when she first adopted a plant-based diet. Her motivations stem from a lifelong love for animals and a desire to make more compassionate food choices. Over time, Kircher discovered the numerous health benefits and environmental impacts of a plant-based lifestyle, prompting her to dedicate her efforts to raising awareness and supporting others in their transitions.
Kircher recalls her switch to a plant-based diet in June 2013, driven by a documentary that highlighted the origins of her food. This revelation led her to immediately stop supporting an industry fueled by unnecessary suffering. The health benefits she experienced were profound; chronic aches, pains, and exhaustion vanished shortly after eliminating animal-based foods from her diet. Kircher notes that while everyone’s experience varies, the body’s detoxification process can yield noticeable health improvements, encouraging patience and persistence in those new to the lifestyle.
In 2019, the introduction of the Impossible Whopper at Burger King signaled a significant shift in mainstream dining. Inspired, Kircher, along with local vegan Rebecca Burnett, launched the first SOMD Vegan Restaurant Week. Their initial goal of engaging four local restaurants quickly expanded to 18 enthusiastic participants. The event’s success underscored the Southern Maryland community’s readiness for plant-based dining options and laid the foundation for SOMD Vegan Events.
SOMD Vegan Events aims to showcase the delicious versatility of plant-based foods while debunking myths and outdated stereotypes. By providing free resources and a supportive space, the organization helps individuals transition to a plant-based lifestyle and collaborates with local businesses to foster economic growth. The success of the 2019 event attracted attention from NBC4, further amplifying their mission.
The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift in SOMD Vegan Events’ approach. Partnering with The Ruddy Duck, they offered pre-order pick-up meals with special vegan menus, maintaining community engagement while supporting local businesses. Kircher emphasizes the importance of accessible resources for plant-based eaters and continues to organize diverse events, from grocery store tours to free charcuterie tastings and volunteer clean-up days at local animal sanctuaries.
Kircher advises newcomers to pace themselves and seek guidance from experienced individuals. Certified as a Vegan Lifestyle Coach & Educator from Main Street Vegan Academy, she offers support and recommends resources such as VegNews Magazine, Vegan Outreach, and NutritionFacts.org. Her favorite local dining spots include The Real Food Studio, Botanic Cafe, and Ruddy Duck Brewery, among others, which offer creative and welcoming plant-based options.
Kircher passionately discusses the environmental benefits of a plant-based diet, highlighting the significant reduction in water and land use compared to animal agriculture. She advocates for legislative support for plant-based food production and invites collaboration with local farmers interested in transitioning to plant-based crops. Despite her current volunteer status, Kircher remains committed to her mission and encourages community action through initiatives like the PLANT Act.
Kircher’s dedication to SOMD Vegan Events is unwavering, with plans for future collaborations and events that promote plant-based living. For more information or to get involved, community members are encouraged to reach out to her directly.
For more details and resources, visit the SOMD Vegan Events website or contact Alissa Kircher directly.
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