Let’s Get Cookin’ for the Boys & Girls Club
By Felicia L. Niven
The air is alive with the tantalizing aromas of sizzling meats, fragrant herbs, and savory sauces, wafting from tables where chefs meticulously prepare their culinary creations. Soft music drifts through the air, mingling with the hum of animated conversations and the clinking of glasses, creating a lively backdrop for a memorable evening. As you take in the sights, smells, and sounds, you feel a sense of anticipation, knowing that tonight's celebration is not only a feast for the senses. It’s a heartwarming opportunity to support a worthy cause.
This is “Let’s Get Cookin’,” a culinary showdown dedicated to supporting the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. Dozens of professional and amateur chefs gather to share their culinary talents and guests get to sample it all, plus receive a beautifully curated recipe book as a memento of the evening. Exciting raffle baskets and exclusive auction items offer ample opportunities for guests to win fabulous prizes. The 2025 fundraiser is scheduled for Wednesday, February 5, at the Island Waterpark at the Showboat Resort in Atlantic City from 6-8 pm.
The cause – the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City – is one that is near and dear to many. This organization helps local youth build great futures and its impact is far-reaching. Programs include STEAM and robotics, drones, science, music, art, recreation, and wellness. Hot meals and snacks are served daily by a dedicated staff that also instructs older members in kitchen safety. The clubs offer a 21st Century academic enrichment program, hospitality and workforce tracks, and college and career programming. Leadership skills are built through opportunities to lead and mentor, develop positive relationships, and make a difference in our community.
“The Let's Get Cookin' fundraiser is not only a great fit for the Showboat, but also for me personally,” says Showboat General Manager Anthony Faranca. “Our resort focuses on providing entertainment for families and children of all ages, so of course we have a facility that can partner with the Boys & Girls Club to provide special access for at-risk children who otherwise may never have that opportunity. Additionally, I have personally been an active mentor for many children who come from less fortunate circumstances, so I am familiar with the impact that leaders can have on our youth - and truly honored that the Boys & Girls Club would trust us to be their partner.”
The Showboat will be offering two free passes to the Island Waterpark for every pair of tickets sold for Let’s Get Cookin’ through December 31. “We are always looking for ways to enhance the experience of our guests and community partners. So when it was suggested that donating tickets would help improve the impact of the event, it was an easy decision.”
“Let's Get Cookin' isn't just about food; it's about nourishing futures,” said Tracey Triniwell, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. “We're investing in the potential of our youth, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. Together, we're cooking up a recipe for success that benefits us all.”
The fundraiser is truly a community effort. Lori Herndon, board member for the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City, and Larry Sieg of Visit Atlantic City, head a committee of dedicated volunteers working alongside ACBGC staff. Sponsors include Showboat Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Shaun Reilly Photography, NJ Lifestyle, Visit Atlantic City, and iHeartRadio including 95.1 WAYV, 100.7 WZXL, 99.3 The Buzz, and 96.1 WTTH.
General admission tickets are $100. For every pair of tickets purchased prior to Dec. 31, recipients will receive 2 complimentary waterpark passes to be used at a future date.
For tickets, chef registration, and sponsorship opportunities, visit https://www.acbgc.org/lets-get-cookin-2025/.
