Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 days ago
Hope Haven hosted its inaugural "Next Level Hope" culinary competition and fundraiser on Friday, May 15, 2026. Inspired by the hit television show Next Level Chef, the event paired professional Charlotte restaurant chefs with local social media culinary creators to compete in crafting their ultimate homemade meal.
Event Details & Impact: Date & Time: Friday, May 15, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: The Forum at Hope Haven, Charlotte, NC
Mission: The event celebrated Hope Haven’s 50th anniversary, raising proceeds for their residential recovery programs that provide housing, counseling, and family support for individuals overcoming addiction and homelessness.
Participating Chefs: The competition featured three professional chefs paired with three local food personalities:Chef Shaun King (Executive Chef, Uchi Charlotte) paired with Nekenya St. Clair (Ken's Kitchen).Chef Chayil Johnson (Community Matters Cafe) paired with Shea Williamson (Chef Shea Butter).Chef Vince Giancarlo (Culinary Director, B-Side Hospitality Group) paired with Kenneth Williams (Kenneth Williams Catering).
Highlights & Features: Tasting & Voting: General admission tickets included small plate tastings from each chef team, alongside mocktails, bites, and desserts from community partners.
Attendees had the opportunity to help crown the People’s Choice Award winner.Judges: A panel of celebrity judges anonymously tasted and scored the dishes, alongside event MC Tom Haberstroh.
To learn more about the fundraiser or support the nonprofit's programs, visit Hope Haven Inc.
Hope Haven hosted its inaugural "Next Level Hope" culinary competition and fundraiser on Friday, May 15, 2026. Inspired by the hit television show Next Level Chef, the event paired professional Charlotte restaurant chefs with local social media culinary creators to compete in crafting their ultimate homemade meal.
Event Details & Impact: Date & Time: Friday, May 15, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: The Forum at Hope Haven, Charlotte, NC
Mission: The event celebrated Hope Haven’s 50th anniversary, raising proceeds for their residential recovery programs that provide housing, counseling, and family support for individuals overcoming addiction and homelessness.
Participating Chefs: The competition featured three professional chefs paired with three local food personalities:Chef Shaun King (Executive Chef, Uchi Charlotte) paired with Nekenya St. Clair (Ken's Kitchen).Chef Chayil Johnson (Community Matters Cafe) paired with Shea Williamson (Chef Shea Butter).Chef Vince Giancarlo (Culinary Director, B-Side Hospitality Group) paired with Kenneth Williams (Kenneth Williams Catering).
Highlights & Features: Tasting & Voting: General admission tickets included small plate tastings from each chef team, alongside mocktails, bites, and desserts from community partners.
Attendees had the opportunity to help crown the People’s Choice Award winner.Judges: A panel of celebrity judges anonymously tasted and scored the dishes, alongside event MC Tom Haberstroh.
To learn more about the fundraiser or support the nonprofit's programs, visit Hope Haven Inc.
