Fork the System: Food, Health, and Compassion

Fork the System: Food, Health, and Compassion

Join us for a free community event featuring delicious plant-based food, an expert panel, and big ideas on healthy, compassionate living.

By Life With Pigs Farm Animal Sanctuary

Date and time

Saturday, May 31 · 1 - 3pm EDT.

Location

Norge Community Hall

7402 Richmond Road Williamsburg, VA 23188

About this event

  • Event lasts 2 hours
  • Free venue parking

Fork the System: Food, Health, and Compassion is a free, all-ages community event focused on exploring the many benefits of a plant-based lifestyle—from mental and physical wellness to public health to animal welfare.


What to Expect:


  • A dynamic panel discussion featuring:

Dr. Erin Kalan, DO – Primary Care Physician

Laura Bronstein, LCSW – Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Ryan Phillips – President of Life With Pigs Farm Animal Sanctuary


  • Free, delicious plant-based food for all attendees
  • A raffle with exciting prizes
  • Opportunities to connect with others and ask questions
  • Resources to help you explore plant-based living

Whether you're veg-curious, already vegan, or just here for the free food, you're warmly invited to join us for an afternoon of learning, community, and compassion.

Dr. Erin Kalan, DO

Dr. Erin Kalan is a board-certified primary care physician with a special interest in Conservation Medicine and the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnected health of people, animals, and the environment. Her work bridges the gap between human medicine and planetary health, with a focus on prevention, nutrition, and community care.

Dr. Kalan believes that a plant-based lifestyle is a powerful tool for promoting personal health, preventing chronic disease, and supporting a healthier planet. She’s passionate about empowering individuals with the knowledge to make choices that care for both their bodies and the world around them.

At this event, she’ll explore how what we eat impacts not just our own well-being—but the broader web of life we’re all part of.


Laura Bronstein, LCSW

With over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Laura Bronstein has helped people navigate everything from anxiety and trauma to grief and life transitions.

At this event, Laura will share how a plant-based lifestyle can support emotional well-being and mental health. In her therapy practice, she often explores the connection between food and mood with her clients, helping them understand how what we eat can influence how we feel.

As both a therapist and a vegan, she brings a unique perspective on how choosing compassion on our plates can lead to greater peace of mind and heart.


Ryan Phillips, President, Life With Pigs Farm Animal Sanctuary

Ryan Phillips is the founder and President of Life With Pigs Farm Animal Sanctuary in Williamsburg, Virginia. A former history teacher turned full-time animal advocate, Ryan has dedicated his life to rescuing and caring for farmed animals while educating the public about the realities of animal agriculture. Through storytelling, public speaking, and hands-on outreach, Ryan invites others to see animals as individuals with personalities, emotions, and the right to live free from harm.

Tickets

Frequently asked questions

Can we attend virtually if we can't attend in person?

Yes! We have a separate event for our virtual attendees, which will take place on the same day.

Organized by

Life with Pigs Farm Animal Sanctuary provides forever homes to farm animals in need and compassion-filled educational experiences to the public.