BRIELLE, NJ – June 10, 2024 – The Second
Annual Ashley Lauren Foundation’s Chefs Who Care premiere tasting event was a
resounding success, bringing together top chefs from New York City and New
Jersey at the illustrious Essex and Sussex in Spring Lake. This extraordinary
event, held on May 20, 2024, showcased the culinary talents of renowned chefs
while raising vital funds and awareness for The Ashley Lauren Foundation,
dedicated to providing hope and support for children with cancer and their
families throughout New Jersey.
The event featured an exceptional lineup of
chefs, including Michelin Star Chef Joseph Sergentakis (Boschetto, Allendale
Social), Fabrizio Facchini (Facchini Food Services), Cesare Casella
(Casella’s), Roberto Caporuscio (Keste’ Pizza e Vino), Jesse Jones (Chef Jesse
Concepts), Bryan Giron (Perquin by Santelli’s Hospitality), Stephen Yen
(Liberty National Golf Club), Joe Settepani (Bruno’s Bakery), Joe Murphy
(Bakehouse by Joe Murphy), German Rizzo (Plado Tasting Bar), Hong Thaimee,
Jessica Bucceri (JB Couture Cupcakes), Ryan DePersio (Kitchen Step,
Tillinghouse, Ember and Eagle), Damiano Rosella (Maestro Pasta NYC), Mike
Smithling (Heirloom at the St. Laurent), Michael Cosenza (Mike’s Pasta &
Sandwich Shoppe), Barbara Gold (Gourmet Barbara), Charles Verdi (Verdi Catering
and Private Dining LLC), Daniel Dowe (Artisanal Cheese), Helen Nguyen (Saigon
Social), Calvisius Caviar and Susan
Julia (Susan Julia Olive Oil).
Also joining the event was Laura Vitale, the
acclaimed cookbook author and host of "Laura in the Kitchen," whose
presence added to the excitement of the evening. Attendees enjoyed premium wine
and spirits, live entertainment, special guests, an extraordinary auction, and
exclusive swag.
“We are honored to announce that our
Humanitarian Award Recipient for the event was entrepreneur and philanthropist
John Dalton,” stated Monica Vermeulen, Founder/CEO of The Ashley Lauren
Foundation. John Dalton, CEO of Monmouth County-based IT Initiatives, has made
significant contributions through his philanthropic efforts and his work
supporting various sectors, including senior living, healthcare, education, and
government.
The success of this event was made possible by
the unwavering support and participation of chefs, volunteers, sponsors, and
attendees. The chefs poured their hearts into every dish, creating an
unforgettable culinary experience, while the volunteers worked tirelessly
behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly. The collective effort of
everyone involved was instrumental in making the event a triumph.
We are grateful for the support of our
sponsors, including Italian Food Guys Inc., San Pellegrino, Urbani Truffles,
D’Artagnan Gourmet Meats, DeCecco Pasta, Partanna Olive Oil, Wines with Causes, La Caravelle, Santo
Spirits, LeMalt by Meximodo, 21st Amendment Imports, Casa Komos Brand Group,
Disaronno International, The 1 Wine & NY Classic Beer and Saravella Coffee.
Entertainment was provided by The Event Specialists - Paul Anthony
Entertainment and R3 Brothers Music, with a special VIP performance by renowned
piano sensation NGXB.
Since 2005, The Ashley Lauren Foundation has
been dedicated to providing vital assistance to children with cancer and their
families in New Jersey. Founded by Monica Vermeulen, inspired by her daughter
Ashley Lauren's battle with cancer, the foundation offers financial, emotional,
and material support. Programs include direct financial assistance, material
assistance, emotional support, major parties for families, advocacy, and
various initiatives to bring joy and ease to the lives of affected families.
“We help with Direct Financial Assistance (all
household bills, traveling expenses to and from hospitals, funeral expenses and
much more); Material Assistance (food, clothing, household items); Emotional
Support (for the entire family); 2 Major Parties for the Children and their
families (Spring Party at the Boardwalk and Christmas Party); Advocacy; ‘Making
Dreams Come True’ Program; Birthday Brigade (each child is celebrated on their
Birthday); Outings and anything else that is needed to make their lives easier
and bring smiles to their faces. This event will strengthen our ability to
bring much-needed resources and assistance to children and their families who
are facing the horrific disease of pediatric cancer,” shared Vermeulen.
Thank you to everyone who made this event a
remarkable success. Your participation and generosity are making a real
difference in the lives of children and families facing pediatric cancer.
For additional information about The Ashley
Lauren Foundation or to donate, contact info@ashleylaurenfoundation.org
or call 732-414.1625.
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