Jacob's Chance to host 'Chefs for a Cause' fundraising event Feb. 5
Jacob’s Chance, a Richmond-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting people with disabilities, will host “Chefs for a Cause: Because Everyone Deserves a Seat at the Table” on Wednesday, Feb. 5, from 6 p.m.10 p.m. at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in Richmond.
The fundraiser will pair five local Richmond chefs with five Jacob’s Chance Restaurant Ready culinary students for a one-of-a-kind dining experience celebrating collaboration, mentorship, and inclusion within the hospitality industry.
Restaurant Ready is a nationally recognized workforce training program providing participants with the opportunity to learn essential culinary skills, preparing them for employment opportunities in the hospitality industry. During the event, each chef/student duo will work side by side to create, cook, and serve tapas-style plates to guests throughout the evening.
“Chefs for a Cause not only serves as one of our primary fundraisers for the year, but also as a powerful opportunity for our Restaurant Ready participants to showcase their culinary skills and be celebrated,” said Kate Mardigian, executive director of Jacob’s Chance. “We’re incredibly grateful to the local chefs who are giving their time and talent to mentor these budding sous chefs.”
Participating chefs include:
• Tracey Thorman, Hobnob;
• Andrew Peters, Tarrant’s Cafe;
• John Argue, Fall Line Kitchen & Bar;
• Alex Vasquez, Natalie’s Taste of Lebanon;
• Kendra ‘Kay’ House, Breaking Bread Company – and a Jacob’s Chance culinary instructor.
In addition to the culinary offerings, the fundraiser will feature live music from Crowded Minds, a silent auction and paddle raise and drinks from Hardywood. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best “Plaid & Pearls.”
Chefs for a Cause is designed not a competition but a celebration of collaboration, community, and the shared commitment to ensuring meaningful opportunities exist for everyone. Proceeds from the event will support the continued expansion of Jacob’s Chance programs, which span athletics, outdoor adventures, arts, music, STEM and its newly revamped culinary program – which now offers three class levels: Beginner, Advanced and Restaurant Ready.
The event also marks Jacob’s Chance’s 13th anniversary.
Learn more, purchase tickets, become a sponsor or donate items for the auction here. Tickets are available through Friday, Jan. 30.
