Ravalli Head Start, Bitterroot CASA partner for food and wine fundraiser

Ravalli Head Start, Bitterroot CASA partner for food and wine fundraiser
Westslope Distillery’s Chris Lopez is one of the volunteer "chefs" for the Men Who Cook for Women Who Wine event this weekend at the Daly Mansion. / Provided photo

Ravalli Head Start is partnering with Bitterroot CASA for a fundraiser supporting both nonprofits.

“We really wanted to come together to make sure that the community knew our resources were available and supporting children and families,” said Ravalli Head Start President Michelle Craig.

The “Men Who Cook for Women Who Wine” event will take place from 5-8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28 at the Daly Mansion.

Ten volunteer “chefs” for the evening will prepare dishes for guests to sample and then bid on. The winning bidder will have that dish made and delivered to them by the “chef” who created the meal. Volunteer “chefs” for the event include Hamilton Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf, CASA Executive Director Roch Turner, Westslope Distillery’s Chris Lopez, Scott Spear from 406 Valuation and the talented Chris Porter from the Community Band.

Ravalli Head Start President Michelle Craig said the event will be a unique experience combining entertainment, food sampling and an auction where attendees bid on dishes prepared by volunteer chefs. Bread, wine and dessert will also be available.

Some of the dishes on the menu include Tuscan bean soup, prime rib and smoked macaroni and cheese.

“People will not leave hungry,” Craig said.

The event aims to raise funds through community engagement, with additional activities like a wine ring toss and a door prize for the best chef. Entertainment for the evening will be provided by Missoula musician Travis Yost.