Those looking for a fun evening out while also supporting a good cause won't want to miss American Cancer Society's (ACS) inaugural Taste of Hope: A Chef's Competition, taking place November 7 at 6:30 p.m. at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Recognized as West Michigan's hottest up-and-coming culinary event, Taste of Hope features some of the area's most popular restaurants and beverage vendors—all while supporting ACS's efforts to eliminate cancer. This year welcomes chefs from: MDRD, Garden Cafe at Beacon Hill, MeXo, Monsoon Vietnamese Cuisine, Reserve, Rockwell & Republic, Terra GR and more.
"We are offering the best of the West Michigan culinary scene, married with the most powerful names in the fight against cancer to accomplish one amazing mission ... save more lives from cancer," said Susan Brogger, Associate Director of Development, ACS. "I know we've all been touched in some way by cancer, be it a friend, coworker, loved one, or self, and we need all hands on deck to stop it. Taste of Hope will allow everyone to come together in one place to hear about the incredible lifesaving mission of the American Cancer Society and how we partner with those around us to make this happen."
Guests will be able to sample a wide array of dishes while voting for your favorites, providing a true culinary experience for all. In the end, one chef will be crowned Top Chef of the year! In addition to unlimited tastings, the evening will also feature fun extras like crafted cocktails, a plentiful wine pull, and an exhilarating live and silent auction filled with one-of-a-kind culinary and travel experiences. There will also be a fun way to highlight Beer City USA: The Growler Games.
The funds raised from the event will be directed toward research grants and support programs such as lodging assistance, transportation assistance, and 24/7 support.
"We only fund the best science here at ACS and we are proud to share that we have $2.4 million invested in research right here at Van Andel Institute," Brogger said. "A portion of our evening will be directly allocated to the Michigan Cancer Research Fund which supports the newest and brightest minds in science right here in our state."
Because an event like Taste of Hope wouldn't be possible without the many talented chefs in West Michigan, organizers have partnered with the American Culinary Federation to help support students seeking a career in the culinary arts.
"The American Culinary Federation is instrumental in the success of this event. Not only are they ensuring flawless execution of the culinary aspect, but they are also supplying a great deal of culinary volunteers to insure an outstanding experience," Brogger explained. "In turn, we will provide payment to them which goes directly into scholarships for the next greatest generation of chefs."
Since 1991, ACS has helped prevent 2.9 million cancer deaths. Those who attend Taste of Hope can raise their glasses knowing they're supporting ACS as they continue to lead the fight for a world without cancer and promote healthy lifestyles.
"It's our hope that our guests leave the evening with a deeper understanding of American Cancer Society and the impact we can make when supported by incredible donors," Brogger said, expressing immense gratitude for their volunteer team and sponsors who have stepped up to support the inaugural event. "It's also very important to us that our guests see the powerful progress that takes place when cancer fighting institutions such as VAI and ACS collaborate. Together we can help deliver a powerful punch to cancer right here in our own city.
"This will surely be the room to be in for 2022—you won't want to miss it!"
Learn more, volunteer and purchase tickets by visiting Taste of Hope.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
Photo courtesy of American Cancer Society.
