Community Culinary school to host student fundraiser

NEW MILFORD — The Community Culinary School of Northwestern CT will host a culinary showcase, “Recipe for Success” on March 24, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at 19 Main Event Venue, New Milford, according to a news release from the school.

The culinary celebration is the largest fundraiser for the nonprofit school, which provides job and life skills training to unemployed and underemployed adults from the greater New Milford area. All food prepared in classes is donated to local food banks to feed the hungry within the community.

The event will feature hors d’oeuvres prepared by students under the direction of chef instructor and program graduate Justin Elander. An open bar of beer and wine will be served throughout the night.

Silent and live auctions will feature luxury goods, spa treatments, and travel, including a week of fun and memories in Ireland. The trip will feature visits to well-known places as well as others less known to tourists, including the walled town of Fethard, Dun Aengus, the Gallarus Oratory, Blarney, Waterford and Cashel as well as the best hotels and dining. The “Restaurants for a Year” auction package with $100 gift certificates to area restaurants is back by popular demand. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase tickets for a wine basket drawing featuring over 20bottles.

To date, 35 classes of students have graduated from the school. The school boasts a 96 percent job placement rate for graduates and a 95 percent sixmonth post-graduation employment retention rate. Graduates have moved into dynamic careers within the food service industry.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to feature the skills of our students and graduates, while bringing awareness to our program and raising funds that will allow us to continue the important work that we do” said Dawn Hammacott, executive director.

Tickets are $85 per person and can be purchased online at www.communityculinaryschool.org or by contacting the school at 203-512-5791. Sponsorship, advertising, and auction item donation opportunities are also available.