Spring is here, and with it comes the season’s must-attend event — The Tasting Experience! This annual evening affair combines the novelty of an indoor food festival, the vibrance of a fabulous party, and the thrill of a highly-coveted silent auction — all for a vital cause.
The Tasting Experience takes place once again at The Stave Room on Thursday, May 1, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. All are invited to join us as we embark on a culinary journey, savoring unique bites from some of Atlanta’s best restaurants and caterers; sip handcrafted cocktails, or raise a glass from our carefully curated beer and wine selection; and bid on an exclusive silent auction (past items have included diamonds and luxury vacations, so you never know what might be waiting for you.)
This lively event captures a certain joie de vivre (exuberant enjoyment of life), which is fitting as it raises important funds for Intellectual & Developmental Disability Services (IDDS) of JF&CS: by having a lively night out at The Tasting Experience, you’ll be helping our clients live their lives to the fullest, too.
The Purpose Behind The Party
Michele & David Hirsch, Louise & Brett Samsky, and Michelle & Gary Simon are serving as co-chairs of the event, which holds a special place in each of their hearts. "We’re very passionate about the IDDS program at JF&CS, and excited to see it continue to grow,” said Michele, Louise and Michelle. “The Tasting Experience is such an important event for Atlanta: it connects with so many people — including those who aren’t yet part of the agency's community."
IDDS Clients pose with Abby Frantz, Community Advocacy Manager of IDDS services, at The Tasting 2024
Connecting with community feels more crucial than ever in today’s environment, and this year, there’s a special reverence to the gathering: The Tasting Experience falls on Yom HaAtzmaut, Israeli Independence Day. Terri Bonoff, CEO of JF&CS, hopes that “as we come together in support of our programs that serve those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, may we bring the strength of spirit that this day evokes and enjoy wonderful food, friendship, and fellowship! All are welcome, and I particularly love seeing many generations coming together, making new memories and lifting up those who depend on our support.”
The Champion of Inclusion Award: Susan Berch
Susan Berch will be presented with the Champion of Inclusion Award at The Tasting Experience. This award celebrates those who have helped change the landscape for individuals with disabilities, and Susan is a worthy recipient. As a past client of IDDS and a valued staff member of JF&CS for over 30 years, she’s also a devoted advocate of inclusion. Susan proudly leads virtual minyan at Congregation Bet Haverim and participates in Friendship Circle, Uniting for Change, Leadership Collective, and advocacy day at the Georgia State Capitol.
Champion of Inclusion Susan Berch
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude to accept this prestigious award,” said Susan. “It’s such an honor to be recognized by an organization like JF&CS that’s had such a huge impact in my life, and I appreciate that so many of my friends and family will be (at The Tasting Experience) to celebrate with me.”
“We are honored to recognize Susan for her self-advocacy as well as advocating for her peers,” said Jessica Katz, Director of Development. “She is an ardent champion of creating a more inclusive world for all.”
Don’t miss Atlanta’s premier fundraising community event. Come Sip, Savor, and Support with us. We’ve sold out in the past, so don’t wait. Buy your ticket or sponsorship today. Visit our website at thetastingexperience.org
About IDDS Services:
The Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Services of JF&CS provide supportive programming to adults with disabilities so they may live fulfilling lives as independently as possible, while also supporting their families and caregivers. These programs include the nonsectarian Zimmerman-Horowitz Independent Living Program, the Community Access Group, a community integration day program with numerous outings and activities each week, and Supported Employment, a program helping those who want to work to gain the skills they need to get and keep a job, while receiving on-going support to ensure long-term success.