Auburn Sip 'n Save begins four-day run

Beginning Wednesday and running through Saturday, the Auburn Sip 'n Save event taking place at The Baker and the Cakemaker at 1102 Lincoln Way in Auburn. According to Valen Keefer, who is an ambassador for the Chris Klug Foundation (CKF), there were 22 coffee shops across eight states that took part in 2024, and over 1,890 individuals were reached across those states. CKF provides the sleeves at no charge for the shops along with educational materials such as posters, stickers and pamphlets. "Their aim is to more than double this reach in 2025," Keefer said. Keefer is a double transplant recipient and national advocate for organ donation. "I received a kidney transplant 22 years ago and a liver transplant six years ago, both needed because of a genetic kidney disease, polycystic kidney disease (PKD)," Keefer said. "Auburn has been very supportive of the cause over the years, including Placer County." CKF is dedicated to promoting lifesaving organ, eye and tissue donation, and improving the quality of life for those touched by organ donation. It uses the stories of organ donors and donor families, and transplant candidates, recipients and family members to inspire, alongside events, online courses and webinars to educate. All with the end goal of encouraging individuals to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. The Baker and the Cakemaker makes artisan bakery, plus supplying homemade bread, pastries, sandwiches and salads. The county will be lighting the courthouse blue and green in April for Donate Life Month. Keefer will be accepting a proclamation from the county, also in April declaring the month as Donate Life Month in Placer County. The Sip 'n Save started in 2024 when the Chris Klug Foundation started the campaign with the aim of educating individuals as they enjoy their coffee or tea. CKF and a team of volunteers at local coffee shops join in the promotion by using custom hot cup sleeves and displaying educational materials for National Donor Day. The Chris Klug Foundation is based in Aspen, Colo., and received their Bounce Back Give Back award in 2017. The foundation was established in October 2003 by Olympic bronze medalist and liver transplant recipient, Chris Klug.