We’re still riding high from The Tasting Experience 2025. Our beloved, enduring annual fundraiser—which drew a crowd of over 700 to The Stave Room on May 1—blended heart and hospitality into one unforgettable evening.

The Purpose

Every nosh, sip, and bid went to support JF&CS services for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DDS). I/DD programs are open to everyone, and:

• Empower adults to live independently
• Create pathways to meaningful employment
• Foster belonging and community
• Celebrate dignity, strength, and inclusion

“This is more than an event—it’s a celebration of our mission and the people at the heart of it,” said JF&CS CEO Terri Bonoff, who welcomed the crowd and gave special thanks to event co-chairs Michele Hirsch, Louise Samsky, and Michelle Simon. She also reflected on the spirit of Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day, and its themes of resilience and community strength—values echoed throughout the evening.

A Feast for the Senses

From exquisite bites to vibrant mocktails, guests embarked on a delicious culinary journey. Some highlights included a bright tuna tartare, authentic Bukharian dishes, refreshing watermelon salad, and ethereally light hummus with za’atar crackers. Thank you to our participating restaurants and caterers:

Added Touch Catering | Alma Cocina | C&S Seafood | Carmel | Ché René | Chef Steve Creations | The Crazy Apron | Elektra | Gourmet Catering by Alex | High Roller Sushi | La Grotta | Lure | Mission + Market | NFA Burger | Pricci | Reunion | Sprinklenista | Sugar Shane’s | Tre Vele | Truth Be Told | Vino Venue | Zakia | Zest Catering

Wines and spirits were curated by longtime event volunteer Mark Brown of The Wine Shop, and the HAMSA bar featured Yom Ha’atzmaut-themed mocktails. The cozy and irresistible “Sweet Escape” room offered tempting desserts (think a rainbow of macarons, chocolate cupcakes, Mississippi Delta cookies, along with some savory truffle popcorn to balance it all out) with comfortable seating and plenty of space to mingle.

Auction Buzz

The silent auction pulsed with excitement all evening, featuring:

• Diamond jewelry
• Luxury artwork from renowned local artists and the JF&CS Artist Collective
• Luxury vacations
• Music memorabilia

*The buzziest item: a Swarovski Crystal ‘Star of David’ purse that drew a crowd—and a bidding frenzy!

Standout Moments

This year’s highlights were as meaningful as they were moving:

• Susan Berch was honored as the 2025 Champion of Inclusion. Susan is a former I/DDS client, and is now a JF&CS staff member with 30+ years of service. She’s a force of strength, service and advocacy at the agency and beyond.
  • The recognition “made me feel proud, and I was overwhelmed,” shared Susan. “My favorite part was seeing my friends and family. My cousin came all the way from Birmingham to be with me. I love the award itself, and it sits on my coffee table. I feel appreciated (at JF&CS), that people appreciate what I do. If I can help people out, it makes me feel wanted and like I belong.”
  • Michele, Louise and Michelle added, “As Event Co-Chairs, we were especially moved to see JF&CS truly walk the walk when it comes to inclusion. Honoring Susan Berch—someone who has dedicated 30 years to the organization—with the Champion of Inclusion Award was incredibly powerful. It made us all feel even more proud to be part of this year’s Tasting Experience Team.”

• The Tasting Experience Choir “brought down the house!,” as Terri put it. This powerhouse group of our I/DD clients and Direct Support Professionals brought the house down with rock anthems from Phil Collins and Journey, and “Salaam” to celebrate Yom Ha’Atzmaut. The performance was met with much applause.
  • “I love going to the Tasting [Experience] and performing in the choir! It’s so much fun!” said I/DDs client Lauren.
  • Lauren’s parents are regular attendees at The Tasting Experience, proudly supporting their daughter and the program. “Lauren loves spending her days with her friends at IndependenceWorks,” said her mother, Peggi. “It gives her an incredible opportunity to have experiences and develop relationships on her own terms. She loves singing in the choir and especially looks forward to performing at The Tasting. Lauren loves being in the limelight!”

A Community That Shows Up

Some guests came for the food, others for the cause, but all left deeply inspired by the unity in the room. Hugs, reunions, and heartfelt conversations filled every corner, creating an unmistakable sense of belonging and warmth. A cherished community staple, The Tasting Experience continues to evolve year after year.

“This is my 20th Tasting… it just keeps getting better,” said Mark Kopkin, community leader and past JF&CS Board Member.

After the last toast was raised and the final crumbs were swept away, Terri took a moment to reflect on the event.

“The Tasting Experience was a resounding success—made ever so special by the outpouring of attendees, the delicious food and our extraordinary clients!” she said. “Thank you to our outstanding Chairs, Event Committee and JF&CS staff!”

Save the Date: April 30, 2026

Did you miss this year? We missed you—but it’s not too late to be part of the impact! Visit our website to support our IDDS programs, and don’t forget to save the date for next year: April 30, 2026. You’ll definitely want a seat at this table!