Pilot Light supports teachers to deliver accessible, engaging, health-promoting Food Education to students as part of regular classroom instruction in subjects like math and science. Their annual Feed Your Mind Gala is one of the most anticipated events on Chicago’s fundraising calendar. On one exciting evening, Pilot Light’s founding chefs Jason Hammel, Paul Kahan, Justin Large, and Matthias Merges share the stage with other award-winning Chicago chefs to collaborate on a one-of-a-kind four-course meal. Over the last two years, these chefs have included Rick Bayless (Topolobampa & Frontera Grill), Joe Flamm (Rose Mary & BLVD Steakhouse) Beverly Kim & Johnny Clark (Wherewithall & Parachute), Genie Kwon & Tim Flores (Kasama), James Martin (Bocadillo Market), Dylan Patel (avec), Noah Sandoval (Oriole), and Jonathan Zaragoza (Birrieria Zaragoza). Together, they create an unforgettable experience for guests while raising funds to bring classroom-based food education to students across Chicago (30 community areas and counting) and the nation. No other event offers guests the chance to be in the same room with multiple James Beard award-winners and Rising Stars.

The 2023 event will take place on November 3 at Venue West in Chicago's West Loop/West Town neighborhood and will begin at 6pm with a cocktail hour followed by a seated dinner and program. Approximately 250 guests from key demographics and top corporations are expected to attend in person and others can join virtually. Our engaging program will feature our chefs, food education tales from the classroom, and a professional auctioneer who will conduct a high-energy live auction brimming with exclusive travel adventures, tastings, and experiences (some featuring celebrity chefs). Past destinations have included Breckenridge, Iceland, Italy, Oregon's Willamette Valley, Santa Barbara, and Switzerland. A silent auction and raffle round out the festivities.