Growing Great, the locally-based non-profit organization that has grown into a national model for teaching children nutrition and gardening, hosts a “foodie” fundraiser this Saturday featuring celebrity chefs David LeFevre, Neal Fraser, and Benjamin Ford.
The event, which also honors Growing Great food “champions” Secil Atalie (from Arnett Farms of local farmers’ market fame), Kelly Meyer (founder of The Teaching Garden), and Ford (chef at Ford’s Filling Station), will feature seasonal dishes with ingredients from the Manhattan Beach Farmers’ Market. The chefs will offer demonstrations – with detailed recipes guests will take home as part of their “swag bags” – and meals paired with fine wines and microbrews.
LeFevre, owner and chef at MB Post, said that Growing Great’s ability to reach children and instill healthier food habits is crucial to America’s health.
“These students learn where fresh seasonal produce comes from, what it looks and tastes like,” LeFevre said. “That may be something we all take for granted but consider not knowing that spinach doesn’t have to be mushy and canned, that it can have texture and flavor! I was lucky as a child to have an adult show me a farmers market and teach me the difference between canned and fresh foods. I am at a point where I can no longer underestimate the power of healthy eating for our children and for future generations to come and Growing Great has provided me an excellent opportunity to give back.”
Growing Great’s programs are currently offered in 32 schools, reaching over 16,000 students and 50,000 family members, and are expanding nationwide. The organization was founded by parents and students from Grand View and Pacific Elementary schools in Manhattan Beach, who originally petitioned for more nutritional school food before launching more health-conscious programs that soon spread beyond MBUSD.
Fraser, chef at The Strand House, will be joined by owner Mike Zislis, a longtime Growing Great supporter. Guests will also be treated to catering by three of Zislis’ Manhattan Beach restaurants, including The Strand House, Mucho and Rock’n Fish. Eat Cake Café will also cater the event, which takes place at a private home.
Tickets are $200 and can be purchased at GrowingGreat.org. For more info contact Kristy Gump at kristy@growinggreat.org or 310-939-9216.
