Experience the Shamrock Shuffle: A St. Paddy's Day Bar Crawl in Durham!

Join the Chili Cook-off and Support L’Arche North Carolina's Mission!

Update Spice Up Your March with a Heartwarming Chili Cook-off Mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds! On March 7, 2026, L’Arche North Carolina and Duke Memorial are hosting a delightful Chili Cook-off from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Duke Memorial United Methodist Church in Durham. This isn't just a culinary competition; it's a community event that aims to impact lives positively. Supporting L’Arche’s Mission for Inclusion All proceeds from this flavorful gathering will benefit the Friendship Moving Forward Campaign, aiming to secure the purchase of the Friendship Houses in Durham. These homes help foster a sense of belonging for adults, both with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. The goal of L’Arche NC is to provide safe, welcoming, and inclusive homes where friendships can blossom and community ties can strengthen. What to Expect at the Cook-off Whether you’re a chili aficionado or just looking for family-friendly fun, this event has something for everyone. Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $7 for children ages 12 and under; kids under three can join for free. Besides sampling hearty chili dishes, attendees will have the chance to mingle and learn more about the impactful work of L’Arche NC. If you have a flair for cooking, consider entering the competition! It’s an excellent way to test your chili recipes against fellow residents and chefs in the Triangle area. Your participation will not only bring delicious flavors to the table but will also support a noble cause. The Ripple Effect of Community Support The Friendship Moving Forward Campaign is vital for L’Arche NC to expand its outreach. By ensuring a communal living space, L’Arche can welcome more core members into its vibrant ecosystem. The legacy of Friendship House, which has been a cornerstone for community and friendship in Durham, will continue to thrive, allowing individuals to build meaningful relationships that uplift everyone involved. Broader Impact of the Event Chili may be the star of the show, but the essence of this event goes beyond savory flavors. It symbolizes unity and the importance of stand-up for each other—meeting needs and celebrating differences. In a time when community connections are vital, this event urges participation in local culture, not just as spectators but as active contributors. Join Us for a Day of Flavor and Friendship This Chili Cook-off isn’t just another local event; it's an opportunity to support a transformative mission while enjoying good food and company. With such a rich cultural tapestry in the Triangle - from arts exhibitions to farmers markets - engaging in events like this allows you to continue contributing to a greater sense of belonging within our neighborhoods. So, come out, bring your family, and let's make a difference in our community—one bowl of chili at a time! To buy tickets or find out more about participation, visit the L’Arche North Carolina website. Every bowl sampled contributes to a cause far greater than just a meal! Why This Event Matters In bustling North Carolina, where diversity and inclusion enrich our social fabric, events like the Chili Cook-off create ripples that foster empathy and communal support. They remind us that sharing meals and experiences can sow seeds for friendships, opening doors to understanding between various points of view and communities. Choose to make a positive impact today—join us and celebrate with chili, camaraderie, and community spirit!