News Summary
The 5th Annual Festival of Chefs held at Newport Beach Country Club successfully raised over $900,000 to support students in under-resourced neighborhoods of Central Santa Ana. More than 60 restaurants participated, showcasing culinary delights and a silent auction with various high-end items. The event not only highlights community support but also KidWorks’ vital role in providing educational resources, achieving a near 100% high school graduation rate among seniors.
Newport Beach, California – The 5th Annual Festival of Chefs for KidWorks raised over $900,000 on July 27, supporting students in under-resourced neighborhoods of Central Santa Ana. The fundraiser, held at the Newport Beach Country Club, attracted participation from more than 60 restaurants and food service providers across Orange County, adding to the nearly $5 million raised by the festival since its inception in 2021.
This year’s festival showcased an array of culinary offerings, including seafood, pork belly, smoked brisket, and a selection of desserts paired with refreshing beverages. Guests enjoyed their meals accompanied by the soothing melodies of classical guitar music, creating a festive and elegant atmosphere.
In addition to the food, the event featured a silent auction that boasted items such as fine wines, jewelry, vacation stays, and high-quality cookware. Attendees were encouraged to show their support through bids and donations, further contributing to the event’s success. A compelling video detailing KidWorks’ mission and impact moved many to extend their financial pledges during spirited live auction bidding.
The lively night concluded with a performance by the local band Tijuana Dogs, leaving attendees with lasting memories of the celebration. Graeme Blair, Executive Chef of the Newport Beach Country Club, served as the Host Chef for the evening and was honored with the 2025 Honorary Chef Award for his contributions to the culinary community and the cause.
KidWorks was founded in 1993 and focuses on providing educational support and resources for students from preschool through college. The nonprofit organization has achieved an impressive near 100% high school graduation rate among its seniors. Many students returned to their educational pursuits following the pandemic, showcasing the resilience and commitment of those involved with KidWorks.
The event was coordinated by a dedicated committee of KidWorks Board members, including Cory Alder (chair), Pat Merrell, and Tim Strader, Jr. Their efforts helped create an enjoyable and impactful evening for all participants, emphasizing the foundation’s mission to uplift students in Central Santa Ana.
The success of this year’s festival not only illustrates the strong community support for KidWorks but also reinforces the importance of investing in educational opportunities for local youth. The sheer enthusiasm during the bidding and donations highlights the commitment of Orange County residents to play an active role in shaping the futures of these students.
As KidWorks moves forward, it continues to rely on the support of events like the Festival of Chefs and the generosity of the community to fulfill its mission. With its long-standing history and proven success, KidWorks remains a vital resource for students pursuing their dreams in Central Santa Ana.
For more information about KidWorks and the programs it offers, individuals can visit the organization’s website.
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Additional Resources
- Newport Beach Indy: Festival of Chefs
- LA Times: Local Charitable Events
- Newport Beach Indy: Charity Event
- LA Times: Summer Events
- Newport Beach Indy: Cuisine for Charity
- Wikipedia: KidWorks
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
