2026 Chefs for Change

Two incredible Events for one great cause!

Chefs for Change is back for a 10th year with two unforgettable opportunities to gather around great food and an even greater cause. Our Spring Mixer is already in the books, but our Annual Gala and Auction is still to come, and tickets are now on sale!

FMF’s 2026 Chefs for Change Gala and Auction features an extraordinary lineup of chefs, including several honored by the esteemed MICHELIN Guide. We are thrilled to welcome Matt Kelly of Nanas Rockwood; Chris Garrett of Seraphine; Aaron Benjamin of Gocciolina; Alex Catotti and Erin Kobler of Restaurant Cornelia and The Vintner and The Baker – both opening in spring 2027; and Chris McLaurin of Lutra Cafe and Bakery. The evening begins with a chance to peruse enticing silent auction items, open for bidding from home or in the room, and moves to an exceptional four-course meal served by generous community volunteers. Expect high energy and inspirational moments, all building toward a live auction packed with incredible experiences and one-of-a-kind offerings. Subscribe to our email list for details and follow us on social media for future reveals and surprises! Secure your tickets now.

On June 4th, FMF held a retro-inspired “block party” called Raisin’ the Roof and raise the roof we did! This mixer-style gathering featured small plates from an eclectic mix of Durham’s favorite chefs and restaurants, plus exciting new hot spots. It was an evening of amazing food, community, connection, and classic tunes spun by DJ NABS. Thanks to generous supporters, this party with a purpose helped us raise awareness and more than $40,000 to help children and parents on their journey from homelessness to safe, stable housing.

2025 Chefs for change

Thank you All for the phenomenal support!

In 2025, we raised nearly $300,000 in support from Chefs for Change!

Did you have the chance to join us at our Annual Gala and Live Auction on November 6, 2025, at The Cookery? We hope so! The Gala featured a one-of-a-kind sit-down dinner, with five acclaimed local chefs - Matt Kelly, Aaron Benjamin, Gray Brooks, Michael Lee, & Chris McLaurin - who generously donated their time and incredible talent! The evening was capped off by a lively auction that had everyone raising their paddles to support children and families experiencing homelessness in Durham! We raised $150,000 and we’ll share photos soon!

We hope that you joined us May 22, 2025, at The Lincoln on Geer for Cirque du Support! A carnival-inspired mixer, Cirque featured small plates from 4 local chefs/chef teams—Billy and Kelli Cotter (Toast), Aaron Louv (NanaSteak), Seth Gross (Bull City Burger and Brewery), and Chetan Vartak (Viceroy)— fun games & activities, and dessert from Lutra Cafe & Bakery. We raised $36,000 to support FMF’s efforts to end family homelessness in Durham! Check out photos from the event (courtesy of Scoville Photography).

Chefs for Change

Chefs for Change is a fundraising dinner series that pairs the burgeoning Durham food scene with the needs of families experiencing homelessness. This is more than a dinner – this is a fine dining experience with a purpose.