Food Court Social sees most donations ever in 13th year.
Since 2004, more than 600 students have graduated from the Augmented Education program at George Brown (GB).
The program, which provides job-focused education and training in areas such as construction and culinary arts, has been offered free of charge to students by GB for years. The program, which is also partially funded by the government, also supports graduates with finding and retaining employment in their fields.
To help ensure the continued benefits of this program, the George Brown Foundation has long run the annual Food Court Social event, which raises funds each year by bringing the community together over an evening of great food and drinks.
This year’s event raised more than $720,000 with donations still coming in even after the social came to a close. This not only surpasses the goal set by the Foundation of $700,000, but it also marks the most money ever raised by the event.
This was also the very first event held under the new leadership of Foundation president Marci Ien.
“I loved the energy, vibe and to see the planning come to life was incredible. Everyone I talked to had been for several years and said it was a must on their calendar. [I’m] really proud of the Foundation, thankful to sponsors and students, so appreciate of volunteers,” said Ien. “The George Brown community built this and so many students lives have been changed. It is powerful when people come together in support of something incredible.”
This year, 23 chefs and three beverage partners attended the event, which saw more than 650 people turn out for the sold-out event, in support of raising funds for the program. Chef’s in attendance included many alumni from the culinary school, with notable names on the list being Food Network chefs and show hosts Rob Rainford (License to Grill) and Roger Mooking (Everyday Exotic, Chopped Canada, Man Fire Food).
Attendees were also treated to a special musical performance by award winning singer, songwriter Jully Black.
Black’s message of support and empowerment was especially moving to Bryndoven O’Krafka, director of student experience with the Student Association of George Brown (SAGB).
For her first time attending the event as a member of the SAGB board, O’Krafka notes the importance of community coming together in support of a cause such as the Augmented Education program.
“I thought it was a great evening filled with delicious foods, a beautiful atmosphere and it brought the community together to support a meaningful program and the performance with Jully black was incredible,” she said.
“Everywhere you look there was a new food vendor with delicious food offerings, and such a variety of cultures and cuisines were present. It’s so special to see George Brown alumni bringing their recipes to life and be able to share it for such an important event.
She also highlighted how the goal of the board in supporting students, greatly aligns with the Foundation and the overall goal of the event. O’Krafka points to the students who attend classes in the program, some of whom have overcome obstacles in their life and are looking for a second chance.
Something only possible through the initiative that is the Augmented Education program.
“Community is the foundation to learning and bringing people together for a good cause. When people are supportive, they are able to achieve amazing things, and this was represented really well through the Food Court Social as the delicious food we were being served from alumni chefs exhibited this learning in practice. It brought a variety of people together to continue a meaningful cause to champion change for students’ success,” said O’Krafka.
While the event is over, there are still opportunities to donate to the program which aims to continue supporting students for years to come.
Those interested in making a donation can do so by visiting: www.georgebrown.ca/about/foundation/food-court-social/food-court-social-donors.
