Last week, we gathered 8 local nonprofit professionals around a dinner table at Downtown Credo in College Park. We wanted to create a special experience for these selfless individuals who have dedicated their careers to giving back to our community. Our guests experienced the culinary excellence of our guest chef, Sarah Monroe of The Wandering Wonton and joined our guest host, Ben, in discussing the unique work done in the nonprofit sector.
Florals by In Bloom Florist
Everyone congregated in the living-room-like setting of the coffee shop for introductions and hors d'oeuvres. We started the evening off with some Elderflower Fizz champagne cocktails and pan-seared vegetable wontons drizzled with a sweet glaze.
As our guests took their seats around the dinner table, they enjoyed the second course of the evening - a colorful roasted corn & tomato summer salad. Our guest chef, Sarah, also shared a little bit about herself, her business and her heart for the nonprofit industry with the group.
Though everyone found common ground working in the nonprofit world, this group's work was still extremely diverse. Present at the table were an executive assistant at Junior Achievement, the External Affairs Director for City Year, a victim advocate for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, a co-founder of an organization that teaches self-care to nonprofit professionals, the Community Development Director for Northland Church, a librarian at the Orange County Public Library, a lifelong Central Floridian who has served countless local causes and the Coffee Director for Downtown Credo. We're thankful they graciously hosted this special dinner for us!
Main course by The Wandering Wonton
Next up was the main dish, which was a delicious crispy citrus chicken over cauliflower rice and vegetables. Yum! The conversation continued to flow over interesting topics and fun questions. It was fascinating to hear everyone's thoughts on the biggest misconceptions of the nonprofit industry and what motivates them to get out of bed in the morning and continue the work they do.
We finished the night off with a creamy grapefruit bread pudding and Credo coffee prepared by the Coffee Director himself, Jason Moore. In hosting this dinner, we can only hope that everyone left feeling a little more known and connected to others who are working passionately to support the Orlando community. We are so thankful for the work you do!
Downtown Credo Coffee Director, Jason Moore
Photography by Anna LaBeau Caibio