In March 2009, a group of young graphic designers, writers, photographers, and other creative people from all over the country gathered in Belfast, Maine for Project M. We had 2 weeks to identify and create a project that would positively affect the community. After much exploration and deliberation, we realized that the best thing we could do for this small town in Maine was to offer a way to embrace the good that already exists by uniting people of all kinds within the community. Our vehicle? Free Pie.
So on 3/14 (Pi Day), we hosted the very first Free Pie Day. Free Pie is founded on the idea that simple gestures, like giving away free pie, can unite communities and spread joy. The event was planned, promoted, and executed all within a 48 hour period. We designed flyers, made whip cream pies to covertly plant around town, stenciled ads in the snow, contacted the local press, baked 35 pies with 1 oven, and paraded through downtown. About 150 people came to enjoy a slice of free pie, which we served on ceramic plates that encouraged our guests to stick around and enjoy each other’s company. Our message was unassuming and honest: Sometimes life is bad; free pie isn't.
There have been several other Free Pie Events since this epic day in Belfast. Check out photos from the Free Pie Event I hosted in Columbus, OH here.
Visit the Free Pie website:
Videos:
Project M North 2009 Participants: Amanda Buck, Adam Saynuk, Alex Pines, Archie Lee Coates IV, Breanne Kostyk, Emily Jackson, Haik Avanian, Hannah Henry, James Harr, Megan Deal, Melissa Cullens, Reena Karia, Rosanna Dixon
