In 2020, the Central Virginia Charity Chili cook-off was honored by the National Kidney Foundation with their prestigious Patient Advocate Award, for those that have been outstanding advocates in the fight against kidney disease.
Let us share a bit about the Central Virginia Charity Chili Cook-off, a true labor of love for Earlyhouse, the chili chefs and connoisseurs, the entertainers and volunteers. Since its beginning in 2004 it has been an amazing gathering that brought us all together to celebrate good times and contribute so meaningfully to charity.
The chili flavors and styles were as different as the many trimmings gracing the team spots. Chili was served up from teams in rustic mountain shacks, in outhouses and on back porches. Talented entertainers brought non-stop live music and guests danced in front of the island stage. There was something for everyone – horseshoes and cornhole, kids’ games and activities, our amazing silent auction and drawings. Winners brought home everything from framed artwork and jewelry to local wine baskets, mini-vacations and home services.
The Cook-off raised money for the National Kidney Foundation and Good Doctor’s Foundation and 100% of the monies raised went to them. The goal was to raise $150,000.00. Having met that goal, the difficult decision to discontinue the Cook-off was made and the 15th Charity Chili Cook-off was an amazing and fitting finale. Thank you for your years of support.
* The owners of Earlyhouse, Bruce and Kathy Stiles, shared a special connection to the mission of the Cook-off. In 2007, Kathy was able to donate her kidney to Bruce, who had polycystic kidney disease and was in renal failure. This powerful story is repeated by other donors and recipients again and again. Successful transplants will always be a miracle, but because of excellent medical care, amazing scientific breakthroughs in technique and medication, and the increase in willing donors, these transplants are a miracle that can happen every day.
