On Feb. 5, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in Richmond will feel like opening night of a restaurant for five new, shining sous chefs.
Chefs for a Cause: Because Everyone Deserves a Seat at the Table is a fundraiser for Jacob’s Chance, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through diverse, inclusive programming. Among those initiatives is a newly revamped culinary program offering three distinct class levels: Beginner, Advanced and Restaurant Ready.
Participants on the Restaurant Ready track are enrolled in the national culinary workforce program of the same name to learn essential skills, preparing them for employment opportunities in the hospitality industry. For Chefs for a Cause, five recent Restaurant Ready graduates will be paired with five Richmond chefs to create, cook and serve tapas-style dishes throughout the evening.
For guests, it’s a chance to sample creative small plates for a great cause. For the student chefs, it’s a special moment to showcase their skills and learn from the professionals.
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!
Beyond the food, the evening will feature live music from Crowded Minds, drinks from one of Richmond’s most popular breweries and opportunities to give back and win big with a silent auction and paddle raise. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the evening’s festive spirit with a “Plaid & Pearls” dress theme.
The event also marks 13 years since Jacob’s Chance was founded. The organization was created in honor of a young boy named Jacob, who passed away from complications related to his disabilities. His joyful spirit, love of sports and infectious smile live on through the hundreds of participants who, through Jacob’s Chance, are given the opportunity to discover new passions and possibilities.
Learn more about Jacob’s Chance and its upcoming fundraiser here.
