Marlon Rison & Ericka Dotson began the Community Vegan food truck in 2021, transforming traditional soul food into something more than just good for our souls - but for our bodies, the animals, and the earth. Nestled on the east side of Austin, their food has risen to be acclaimed in the community & beyond.

Over the last year, they've been building a dream - a brick & mortar - to better serve the community. And while they've put everything they have into it, their dream is at risk of slipping away because of financial challenges. If they aren't able to pay their landlord $10,000 by Nov 1 and $10,000 by Dec 1, they'll lose this location and all the heart and hard work they've invested in it.

They're in the last home stretch to opening their restaurant and they need our help to make it a reality.

Why this matters to me:

My name is Tracey and I run a local animal sanctuary and through this, I've had the pleasure of working with Community Vegan and I've seen just how community-first they are. I'm raising these funds on behalf of my friends, Marlon Rison & Ericka Dotson, with the funds going directly to their business to help with rent and essential repairs so they can open.

Marlon & Ericka donated their catering services to our gala last year, and are doing so again this year despite all their challenges because people, animals and their values matter to them. They're the kindest people ever and treat everyone like family (from true friends to the out-of-town visitors that stop by for a great meal). That love shows up in everything they do — especially their food. Amazing people don't deserve to have their dreams crumble, and I am so hopeful our community can come together to help get them the last mile.

How does this help the community?

The food is truly unreal and brings amazing cuisine to Austin's treasured east side. They're smoking mushroom-based meats for unmatched flavor & meatiness (but no cholesterol), serving collard greens, vegan mac & cheese (with bubbly broiled edges), sweet potato honeybun cakes, a brisket lasagna that's unreal, cornbread - and it's all exceptionally delicious but without the heaviness and health side effects. Vegans love it, non-vegans love it even more. People come from all over to try it, and people who love it keep coming back. If you're plant-based and from Austin, you know we've lost so many beloved places over the years; this new location will help bring life into our community.

If you’ve ever had their food, met them, or just believe in good people doing good things — please consider donating or sharing this campaign. Together, we can make sure Community Vegan opens its doors and continues to nourish this city in every way.