A Night to Remember: Defending Potential at the 2025 Big Chefs Big Gala! 

What an unforgettable evening! We gathered last week for the 2025 Big Chefs Big Gala, and we are still buzzing from the energy and passion. We hosted a record-setting number of guests who filled the room, demonstrating the deep commitment our community has to empowering local youth. A massive thank you to our incredible Emcee, Kay & Shi, owners of Squeeze In, who masterfully guided us through the evening and set a perfect tone with her passion for our mission. 

Focus on the Future 

The heart of the evening was dedicated to the impact of being able to serve more kids in Northern Nevada. We shared our ambitious vision for scaling our programs, specifically our High School Bigs and Big Futures programs. Both initiatives that connect our Littles with mentors in innovative ways and ensure they have the resources needed for post-secondary success in our “3 E’s” (Enrollment, Employment, & Enlistment). Every conversation and every speech throughout the night reinforced that powerful commitment. 

A BIG night 

We were deeply moved by the stories shared by Bigs, Cory, Christine, Keish, and Bill who bravely opened their hearts about their journeys.  

Cory shared the initial nerves of becoming the fourth Big in a single family, only to realize his bond with David was uniquely perfect and turned a simple park visit into the “best night of his life.”  

Christine beautifully demonstrated how consistent support creates courage, sharing the story of her Little Sister Alice overcoming a fear of heights on a rock wall, and how a simple frozen yogurt was the perfect comfort after disappointment.  

Keisha reflected on her eight-year investment with Kieliaa. Noting that though the early days brought doubt, their shared discipline and consistency paid off in a priceless way as Kieliaa begins her nursing journey at UNR.  

To conclude these stories, Bill Horn shared a poignant example of long-term impact, recalling the crucial decision that led Pele to repeat eighth grade for the sake of education, a choice that culminated in graduating Magna Cum Laude and earning a scholarship to Snow College.  

The honesty of our Bigs reminds us that this journey is transformative for everyone involved. As a result, we were able to see that being a mentor isn’t always easy, it requires consistency, patience, and the courage to show up even when the path is uncertain, just as Cory and Keisha demonstrated. But this very commitment, showing up with a steady hand, a listening ear, and even a frozen yogurt, is the essential foundation of our mission.  

These four are proof that when you become a Big, you don’t just guide a young person you provide the stability and belief needed to unlock their inherent potential.  

2025 Big Chefs Big Gala: A Community United in Green 

The success of the Gala is a testament to the generosity of our community’s most dedicated partners. A massive thank you goes out to our Presenting Sponsor, Mike Richardson – Gold Star Mortgage. 

We are also grateful to our generous partners who helped craft the evening’s special touches! This includings a special thanks to the team at Weigl Concrete, the Corwin Ford, VIP Sponsor, Sierra Gold Seafood and Sierra Meat & Seafood for donating all the meat and seafood for our delicious meal, Whittier Trust for the wonderful reception, and finally Robert Levy for the Live Auction presentation.  

Additional thanks go out to Pat and Earl Charles our After Party Sponsor, SilverSummit Health our Welcome Drink Sponsor, and the Thelma & Thomas Hart Foundation our Volunteer Sponsor.  

A Culinary Journey for a Cause 

Beyond the generous financial support, we extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible chefs, restaurants, and mixologists who turned the Gala into a true culinary celebration. They truly helped us leave our mark on every guest. 

Thank you to our amazing food partners, including Pizzava, House of Bread, Sierra Meat Seafood, Char B Que, Sushi Pier, Joshua Lee’s Pit BBQ, Daddy’s Tacos, Roundabout, and Liberty Food. Because of these businesses guests were able to indulge. In everything from savory Foie Gras Cotton Candy Lollipops and Rib Tips to delicious Pulled Pork Sandwiches and fresh Sushi. 

Finally, thanks to our talented drink station sponsor, Tipce Bar, 10 Torr, Ferino, Squeeze In, White Rabbit, The Perfect Pour, Parlay 6, and Tahoe Ale Works—whose creative concoctions were a huge hit! From the visually stunning “Crystal Ball” cocktail with its lavender smoke bubble to refreshing Lavender Lemonade and creamy Carousel Creamsicle Margaritas, ensured our record-setting number of guests had the best possible time. 

Beyond the Gala: The Lasting Impact 

The generosity at this year’s event was a direct, powerful investment in our mission. Your support now positions us better than ever to defend potential and build brighter futures for children across Washoe, Carson City, and Lyon County. This funding helps us create and sustain the high-quality, long-term friendships that truly change lives.  

See the Magic 

Relive the best moments and see the energy of the night! We’ve uploaded all the photos, courtesy of Blue Desert Portraits, from the Gala. 

Power Our Mission