Meals On Wheels Atlanta (MOWA), a leading nonprofit addressing senior hunger and isolation, is proud to announce its 37th annual A Meal to Remember fundraising gala. Set for Friday, Nov. 7, 2025 at 6 p.m. at Flourish (3143 Maple Dr. NE in Buckhead), this year’s event promises an unforgettable evening, blending world-class cuisine with philanthropic impact. A Meal to Remember will feature an exceptional lineup of award-winning chefs, honor extraordinary Atlantans and rally the community around a critical mission: to ensure no senior is left behind—or left hungry.
“We are honored to welcome an extraordinary group of chefs from all over the East Coast this year who are giving their time and talent, and we are equally grateful for our donors whose generosity directly translates into nourishment, safety and dignity for thousands of seniors in our city,” says Charlene Crusoe-Ingram, CEO of Meals On Wheels Atlanta.
This year’s gala is co-chaired by an inspiring team of civic leaders and philanthropists: Chase Mizell, Raina Massand, Stacey Leebern and Kimberly Evans Paige. Their leadership helps bring to life a night that blends culinary art with heartfelt giving.
Guests will enjoy a one-of-a-kind culinary journey prepared by 2025’s award-winning chefs, including:
Eric Adjepong – “Top Chef” finalist, Elmina Restaurant in Washington, DC
Karen Akunowicz – James Beard Award winner, Fox & the Knife Enoteca, Bar Volpe Ristorante and Fox Pasta Company in Boston
Vishwesh Bhatt – James Beard Award winner, Chai Pani in Washington, DC
Kevin Gillespie – James Beard Award finalist and “Top Chef” finalist, Gunshow and Nàdair in Atlanta
Photo Credit: Kimberly Evans Photography
In addition to offering a spectacular dinner and wine experience plus fabulous auction items, MOWA will honor individuals whose commitment to the community has made a lasting impact. The 2025 Honorees are Charly Palmer, Dr. Karida Brown, Dr. Les Moon and Mrs. Sandy Moon. MOWA is also proud to recognize George Calfo and George Christman as the 2025 Volunteers of the Year for their extraordinary dedication to serving Atlanta’s seniors.
Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are now available. All proceeds from A Meal to Remember will benefit local MOWA programs, supporting the delivery of hot meals, daily check-ins and critical care coordination for aging neighbors in need.
ABOUT MEALS ON WHEELS ATLANTA
Meals On Wheels Atlanta (MOWA) was founded in 1965 to support seniors struggling with hunger and social isolation. For over 60 years, MOWA has grown from a small soup kitchen to an organization that has delivered over six million lifesaving meals throughout the Atlanta area.
MOWA has expanded its program offerings to respond to other critical needs in the community. The nonprofit now offers multiple services to support Atlanta seniors, including personalized and therapeutic home-delivered and family-style meals, home repair services, an emergency food pantry and a pet pantry allowing seniors to remain at home with their pets, which are sometimes the only family they have.
Since MOWA raises 97% of its funding from private donations each year, the nonprofit has expanded fundraising efforts to include social enterprises 1705WEST, Atlanta’s Premier Event Space with a Purpose; and Purposeful Gourmet Foods, The Snack that Gives Back! All proceeds from both efforts benefit MOWA’s meals program.