On Saturday, November 16, 2024 118 guests gathered at the historic Freemasons Hall in New Westminster for Dan’s Legacy’s 11th Annual Chefs’ Charity Dinner, presented by the BCGEU. The result? Dan’s Legacy Raises $77K for At-Risk Youth at Charity Dinner an elegant evening supporting Dan’s Legacy’s trauma-informed, no-barrier counselling programs and its “Build a Kitchen” campaign.
Hosted by celebrity MC Erin Cebula, the dinner showcased a remarkable lineup of local culinary talent, including Chef Shay Kelly (LACH & KEA Culinary Consultants), Chef Andrew Brazeau-George (Ono Collectives), Pastry Chef Alannah Peddie (Frolic & Forage Catering + Cakery), and Chef Luke Willingdon with students from Dan’s Diner. True to the organization’s values, every dish was crafted using surplus food, highlighting the chefs’ creativity and commitment to sustainability.
A Culinary Celebration for a Cause
The evening began with appetizers by Chef Luke Willingdon and the Dan’s Diner team—a trio featuring Beet & Ginger Soup, a Grilled Tiger Prawn Skewer, and an Asian-inspired Shredded Beef Wonton “Taco.”
Next, Chef Andrew George and his son Chef Andrew George Jr. offered a duo of Elk Goulash and a Three Sisters Salad, honouring their Indigenous culinary heritage. Guests also enjoyed a Crudités and Cheese Grazing Table near the bar, encouraging mingling throughout the cocktail hour.
For the entrée course, guests dined on Grilled Beef with Mashed Potatoes, accompanied by Autumn Vegetables, Yorkshire Pudding, and a Family-Style Green Salad, with freshly baked Cranberry Focaccia adding a festive local touch.
To close the evening on a sweet note, Chef Alannah Peddie of Frolic & Forage Catering + Cakery presented a stunning Dessert Buffet, featuring decadent confections that delighted every palate.
Supporting Youth, Changing Lives
This year, Dan’s Legacy anticipates providing services to roughly 700 at-risk youth across the Lower Mainland. Through harm-prevention counselling, wrap-around supports, and culinary job training, the organization empowers youth to achieve their education, employment, and recovery goals.
All of Dan’s Legacy’s programs are free of charge and accessible to youth wherever they are — with no waitlist and no barriers. In 2024 alone, the organization helped more than 600 young people on their paths toward stability and self-sufficiency.
Learn more about Dan’s Legacy and how to get involved at danslegacy.com.
