Nourish the Cause
An Unforgettable Culinary Experience for a Cause
About Us
At Nourish the Cause, we believe in the transformative power of food to bring people together and create meaningful change. Founded by chefs Arlety Estevez and Jon’nae “Chef Jaye” Smith, our mission is to inspire, uplift, and empower communities by pairing the artistry of food with the heart of philanthropy.
Our Vision
Nourish the Cause was born out of the simple idea that sitting together at the table can spark conversations, build connections, and drive impactful change. By uniting talented chefs and mixologists with local nonprofit organizations, we aim to raise awareness and support for causes that deeply affect our communities.
What We Do
Through curated events like Taste and See, Nourish the Cause creates unforgettable dining experiences that go beyond the plate. These events are not only a showcase of culinary excellence but also a platform to shed light on important social issues and empower organizations doing vital work.
Each event is an opportunity to:
  • Celebrate community and culture through delicious food and innovative drinks.
  • Amplify the voices of nonprofit partners making a difference in our community.
  • Directly support programs and initiatives that help those in need.
Taste and See: Dining for a Cause
Date
SEPTEMBER 6TH
Time
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Location
Love Official Events
2030 Powers Ferry Rd SE, Suite 338, Atlanta, GA 30339
Dress Code
Semi-Formal
Menu
Caribbean, Southern, Modern Fusion
Reserve Your Spot Now
General Admission
Price: $100/pp
Group Pricing: $85.00
  • Entry to the event
  • Access to all chef stations and mixology stations for tastings
  • 2 drink tickets
  • A welcome cocktail upon arrival
  • Silent auction access
VIP Admission (Limited Tickets)
Price: $200
  • All general admission benefits
  • Early entry 30 minutes before doors open
  • 2 additional drink tickets
  • Exclusive access to a VIP lounge area with additional small bites
  • A take-home gift bag
About Bridges
Bridges for the Deaf offers comprehensive resources and support for Deaf individuals facing domestic violence. Learn more and get involved today!
The Team
A dedicated team comprises experienced professionals fluent in ASL and deeply committed to supporting Deaf survivors. That offers a range of services, including crisis intervention, counseling, and case management.
Accessible Communication
Effective communication is crucial. They ensure clear and empathetic interaction through skilled ASL interpreters and readily available communication resources. Bridges understand the barriers Deaf individuals face and strive to remove them.
Safe & Secure
Providing safe and confidential shelter is a cornerstone of Bridges support. They offer emergency housing assistance and collaborate with shelters to ensure Deaf survivors have a secure and supportive place to heal and rebuild their lives.
Justice & Advocacy
Bridges actively advocate for Deaf survivors within the legal system. They provide legal support and work with legal professionals to make sure their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. They fight for justice.
Learn more and get involved today!
Partner With Us
Platinum Sponsor ($2500)
Elevate your brand's visibility with prominent logo placement throughout the event. Enjoy a dedicated speaking slot to share your company's mission and connect with attendees. This sponsorship includes VIP access for four, ensuring a premium experience. Partnering at this level demonstrates your significant commitment to Nourish the Cause and its impact on the community.
Gold Sponsor ($1000)
Increase brand awareness with logo placement on all event materials and a prominent acknowledgment on our website. This sponsorship also provides VIP access for two, granting you exclusive perks and networking opportunities. It's a strategic investment that aligns your brand with our mission and showcases your support for our cause.
Silver Sponsor ($500)
Gain valuable brand exposure with logo placement in the event program and recognition on our website. Your contribution secures two general admission tickets to the event, allowing you to experience the event firsthand and network with attendees. This sponsorship tier is a great way for businesses of all sizes to demonstrate their support for Nourish the Cause.
Bronze Sponsor ($250)
Show your support for Nourish the Cause with an acknowledgment in the event program. Your contribution helps us continue our mission of providing meals and support to those in need, and you'll receive one general admission ticket to the event. Even a smaller contribution makes a big impact!
In-Kind Sponsorships are also available for businesses donating products/services. Contact us to discuss how your contribution can support BRIDGES for Deaf and enhance your company's community engagement.
Our Generous Sponsors
We are deeply honored to partner with these visionary organizations who share our commitment to empowering the Deaf community. Their invaluable support directly funds critical services, from crisis intervention to legal advocacy, ensuring that every survivor receives the care they deserve. Their investment in our mission creates lasting positive change in countless lives.
Each logo represents a champion of our cause who has made a profound difference in our community. Click on their logos to learn more about these extraordinary partners.
The Founders
Arlety Estévez
Co-Founder, Nourish the Cause
Arlety Estévez is a renowned chef and entrepreneur with over a decade of culinary experience and a deep commitment to empowering underserved communities. In 2006, as a volunteer for a local refugee resettlement program, Arlety hosted a family of seven Somali refugees and helped them settled in their new community. This life-changing experience inspired her to dedicate her career to creating opportunities for others.
In the hospitality industry, Arlety has been recognized for her creativity and skill, earning accolades such as finalist at the U.S. Pastry Competition, Second Place in the Dessert Category at Fête Rouge, and the Best Sugar Showpiece Award at the National Showpiece Championship.
Through Nourish the Cause, Arlety combines her culinary expertise with her mission to provide underserved communities with skills, training, and empowerment to thrive in today’s job market. Her work supports individuals in finding meaningful opportunities within the culinary industry, fostering pathways to success and inclusion. Arlety received her bachelor's degree in Baking and Pastry Arts from Johnson & Wales University.
Jon'nae "Chef Jaye" Smith Co-Founder, Nourish The Cause
Chef Jaye is a professionally trained and highly dynamic chef celebrated for her gourmet desserts and vibrant personality. With an impressive foundation in Business and Baking & Pastry Arts, she has honed her craft at prestigious establishments such as Walt Disney World and the Four Seasons.
Chef Jaye specializes in creating Southern and Caribbean-inspired desserts that elevate life's milestones, offering custom dessert displays for corporate events, birthdays and more. Beyond her culinary expertise, Chef Jaye is deeply committed to community engagement and giving back.
As co-founder of Nourish the Cause, she channels her passion for service into hosting events that raise awareness and funds for local nonprofit organizations. Her charitable spirit extends to impactful initiatives, including prom drives, winter coat drives, and toy drives for underserved children—efforts that have touched countless lives and brought hope to those in need.
Chef Jaye’s mission is to inspire joy, foster connection, and create opportunities for communities to thrive.
Follow her journey and discover her latest creations at www.chefjayesmith.com
Board Members
Dr. Teela Grant Founder, Heart ASL Interpreting
Dr. Teela Grant is a credentialed American Sign Language Interpreter who has interpreted from the East to West Coast. She holds a Bachelors in ASL Interpreting, Masters in Psychology and Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. Work in the field of deafness is her passion and heart of who she is. Dr. Teela embodies a servant's heart through pouring into the lives of everyone she meets.
Alista K. Events
Alista K. Events curates intimate gatherings and celebrations that capture your milestone moments with warmth, while leaving your guests in awe! In a world where life-changing events are taking place in the blink of an eye, we cannot afford to take ANYTHING or ANYONE for granted. Tough times come and go, but great moments create memories that can be life defining, life changing, and fulfilling!
📍 Learn more at www.alistakevents.com
Meet Our Culinary Artists
Chef Robert Butts
Executive Chef of Auburn Angel
Ajaye Hooper
Mixologist
Chef Tori Booker
MazieB's Fusion Kitchen
Chef Roshan Martin
Executive Chef Wolfgang Puck Catering
Chef Jennifer Paul-Tammali
Executive Pastry Chef / Owner Cafe Six15
Chef Jennifer is A Johnson & Wales graduate with degrees in Baking & Pastry Arts and Food Service Management, she honed her skills at Atlanta’s top restaurants such as Bistro Niko, Colletta, Oak Steakhouse, and Canoe . Now, as owner of Six 15 Cafe and Bakery, she creates handcrafted desserts that bring joy to every bite.
Lakeithia Porter
Keke Classic Cakes
Pastry Chef for over 10 years serving all events from Scratch. Known for elevating classic recipes with quality ingredients and adding a touch of elegance to every bite.
Chef Deja Shakur & Jamaal Shakur
Soul of the Souf Chef 2
We are young Chefs! We graduated from Johnson & Wales University! We have our own company “soul of the souf” where we fuse southern cuisine & French cuisine.
Get in Touch
Contact Information
Email: ​info@nourishthecause.org​
Phone: (305) 308-2130
Social Media
Follow us on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
IG: @nourishthecause
Join Us in Making a Difference
© 2025 Nourish The Cause. All rights reserved. Proceeds benefit Bridges for Deaf.