BLOOMINGTON — One of Bloomington’s most unique culinary traditions is returning this weekend, and local organizers are calling for a final push of volunteers to ensure its success. “100 Cooks Who Care,” a high-energy gala where community leaders trade business suits for aprons, will take place this Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Monroe Convention Center.
The event serves as a critical fundraiser for New Hope for Families, the only shelter in Monroe County where families with children can stay together while facing homelessness.
The premise of the evening is simple but impactful: 100 local “celebrity chefs”—ranging from business owners to elected officials—prepare their favorite signature dishes. Guests roam the convention center, sampling nearly 100 different appetizers, entrees, and desserts, while tipping their favorite chefs with donations.
Proceeds directly support New Hope’s mission to provide emergency shelter and high-quality early childhood education. Last year, the organization helped 82% of its shelter clients transition directly into permanent, affordable housing.
To manage the crowd of hundreds of guests and 100 cooking stations, New Hope for Families is seeking volunteers for various shifts between 3:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. this Saturday.
Key Volunteer Roles:
- Guest Services: Assisting with coat check-in and greeting attendees upon arrival and departure.
- Chef Support: Helping keep the 100 chef tables well-stocked with necessary supplies throughout the evening.
- Environmental Team: Ensuring the event area stays tidy and assisting staff with the final clean-up after the gala concludes.
Event Logistics
- Where: Monroe Convention Center (302 S. College Ave, Bloomington)
- When: Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026
- Theme: “Famous Families” (Chefs and teams often dress in costumes to match their station décor).
How to Sign Up
Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the organization immediately to secure a shift.
Contact: Amber Griffin, Event & Volunteer Specialist
Email: amber@newhope4families.org. Registration Deadline: Please reach out by Friday, Feb. 20.
For those unable to volunteer, tickets and “tips” for individual chefs can still be processed through the event’s website at bloomington.100cookswhocare.com.
