This summer's Primavera Cooks is in its eighth season of multicourse, wine-paired gourmet dinners with an altruistic twist. The Primavera Foundation, in partnership with Tucson Originals, coordinates the dinners that help finance the foundation.
"It's the major fundraising event of the summer," avers David Elliot, Primavera's development projects coordinator.
The epicure and novice alike can enjoy a multicourse meal for $125, $50 of which is tax deductable. For those interested in expanding their cooking skills, a chef apprenticeship is purchasable for $250, fully tax deductable. Or, hone your wine service and schmoozing skills as an apprentice sommelier for $150, also 100% tax deductable.
The money raised benefits the foundation's programs and services.
"We actually get to see the results of their work," explains Cup Café's manager Steven Dunn, who has used Primavera's employment program to fill vacant positions.
The foundation has employment programs for the homeless, near homeless and ex-prisoners. They are taught new skills and receive assistance in entering or re-entering the job market through the organization's connections in the community. Primavera also provides advocacy services, housing and home ownership programs.
"Primavera is doing important and necessary work in the community. We've supported them as a business and a family for almost as long as I can remember" says Janos Wilder, chef and owner of Janos and J Bar.
Considering what the dining events finance, this is a great excuse to eat out.
Meal and apprentice reservations can be made by reaching David Elliott at 623-5111 x 101 or delliott@primavera.org.
www.PrimaveraCooks.org
Sun, Aug 9: The Cup Café @ Hotel Congress (brunch). Downtown. 311 E. Congress St. www.HotelCongress.com
Wed, Aug 19: Acacia @ St. Phillips. North. 4340 N. Campbell Ave.
www.AcaciaTucson.com
Sat, Aug 29: J Bar. Foothills. 3770 E. Sunrise Dr. www.Janos.com
Wed, Sept 2: Maynard’s Market & Kitchen. Downtown. 400 N. Toole Ave. www.MaynardsMarketTucson.com
Sun, Sept 13: Kingfisher Bar & Grill. Midtown. 2564 E. Grant Rd.
www.KingFisherTucson.com
Thu, Sept 17: Jonathan’s Cork. East. 6320 E. Tanque Verde Rd.
www.JonathansCork.com
