Monday, October 5, 2026
7:00, (EDT)
Date and Time
Last day to buy tickets
Sunday, October 4, 2026
22:41, EDT Sales ended
A Taste of Mexico with Chef Mendez, hosted by AVSI-USA
Join us for an extraordinary evening of food, culture, and impact.
Acclaimed Chef Alam Méndez is hosting friends of AVSI-USA for an intimate dining experience that will take guests to Mexico through food and stories of human connection and solidarity.
In a world that often feels harsh and violent, we invite you to experience friendship beyond borders.
The Culinary Journey
Born and raised in Oaxaca, Mexico, Chef Méndez began his culinary journey in his family's renowned restaurant, "Las Quince Letras," learning traditional Oaxacan recipes from his mother, celebrated Chef Celia Florián. His career has taken him around the world, from training with Chef Elena Arzak in San Sebastián, Spain, to working in Copenhagen, Mexico City, and Washington, D.C., where he has become a respected ambassador of authentic Mexican cuisine.
For one unforgettable evening, Chef Méndez will present a thoughtfully curated multi-course menu that honors the rich culinary traditions of Mexico while incorporating contemporary techniques and the finest seasonal ingredients. Each dish will tell a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the cuisine of one of today's most exciting Mexican chefs in an intimate setting.
The Cause
Beyond an exceptional meal, this gathering is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. One hundred percent of proceeds will directly support Crecemos, a community organization in Oaxaca, Mexico and long-time partner of AVSI-USA.
Our Guest of Honor will be Socorro del Rio, Executive Director of Crecemos ("Growing Together"). Founded in 1993, Crecemos operates across five educational centers in Oaxaca's most vulnerable neighborhoods. For over 30 years, Socorro and her team have proven that lasting development begins by nurturing the whole child and standing alongside families. Crecemos translates compassion into concrete change- having reached more than 15,000 children in its history- as Socorro shares how good nutrition, sports, and music have become the building blocks for personal and community transformation in the marginalized communities of Oaxaca.
The Bridge: AVSI-USA & Partnerships
At AVSI-USA, we believe lasting transformation is never imposed from the outside; it is co-created with those who know their communities best. As part of a global network operating in 42 countries with over 300 active projects, AVSI-USA directly supports 25 long-term partners across 18 countries, including here in the United States.
We build a direct bridge between U.S. donors (like you) and leaders like Socorro. By prioritizing local ownership and human dignity, AVSI-USA ensures that project resources go directly into the field, channeling support where it heals, restores and transforms.
Acclaimed Chef Alam Méndez is hosting friends of AVSI-USA for an intimate dining experience that will take guests to Mexico through food and stories of human connection and solidarity.
In a world that often feels harsh and violent, we invite you to experience friendship beyond borders.
The Culinary Journey
Born and raised in Oaxaca, Mexico, Chef Méndez began his culinary journey in his family's renowned restaurant, "Las Quince Letras," learning traditional Oaxacan recipes from his mother, celebrated Chef Celia Florián. His career has taken him around the world, from training with Chef Elena Arzak in San Sebastián, Spain, to working in Copenhagen, Mexico City, and Washington, D.C., where he has become a respected ambassador of authentic Mexican cuisine.
For one unforgettable evening, Chef Méndez will present a thoughtfully curated multi-course menu that honors the rich culinary traditions of Mexico while incorporating contemporary techniques and the finest seasonal ingredients. Each dish will tell a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience the cuisine of one of today's most exciting Mexican chefs in an intimate setting.
The Cause
Beyond an exceptional meal, this gathering is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. One hundred percent of proceeds will directly support Crecemos, a community organization in Oaxaca, Mexico and long-time partner of AVSI-USA.
Our Guest of Honor will be Socorro del Rio, Executive Director of Crecemos ("Growing Together"). Founded in 1993, Crecemos operates across five educational centers in Oaxaca's most vulnerable neighborhoods. For over 30 years, Socorro and her team have proven that lasting development begins by nurturing the whole child and standing alongside families. Crecemos translates compassion into concrete change- having reached more than 15,000 children in its history- as Socorro shares how good nutrition, sports, and music have become the building blocks for personal and community transformation in the marginalized communities of Oaxaca.
The Bridge: AVSI-USA & Partnerships
At AVSI-USA, we believe lasting transformation is never imposed from the outside; it is co-created with those who know their communities best. As part of a global network operating in 42 countries with over 300 active projects, AVSI-USA directly supports 25 long-term partners across 18 countries, including here in the United States.
We build a direct bridge between U.S. donors (like you) and leaders like Socorro. By prioritizing local ownership and human dignity, AVSI-USA ensures that project resources go directly into the field, channeling support where it heals, restores and transforms.
A limited number of seats are available for this exclusive event.
Reserve your place at the table and join us for an evening where extraordinary cuisine serves an extraordinary cause.
100% of the proceeds go directly to Crecemos.
Contact Jackie for more information: jackie.aldrette@avsi.org
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