Our signature event, Bali Ha'i at the Kampong, celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2005, and has taken place in 2006, 2007 and 2008. In 2008 we were pleased to have the sponsorship of Whole Foods Market both for Days of Taste and Bali Ha'i. Along with our sister chapters and the national organization, we promote an exchange of ideas that benefit both professionals and dedicated enthusiasts through publications and programs.

 

As you know, the AIWF’s mission is not only to raise money for food and wine scholarships for our local culinary schools, but to create a positive impact in our community via educational initiatives geared toward making our next generation one that is happy, healthy and well-nourished. As you probably know, we already have our Days of Taste program nationally with fourth and fifth grade students.

However, in addition to that program, I’m excited to announce that through our chapter I’ll be spearheading a new garden project dedicated to installing and maintaining thriving boxed gardens at less-privileged schools throughout Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Modeled after California’s trend-setting garden network, this exciting new endeavor will give children much-needed opportunities to discover fresh and healthier food choices which will eventually lead to better nourishment. Gardens offer children a wonderful hands-on environment where they can learn the fundamentals of farming fruits and vegetables. This, in turn, demystifies how the foods they eat – or should be eating – actually grow. It also impacts their understanding of the relationship between good nutrition and the health of our environment.
This is going to be an ambitious project that will require a good deal of capital and, more important than that, hands-on work. As a fellow member and supporter, I know how important the AIWF’s mission is to you and I hope I can count on volunteers to join me in getting this program up and running. We need 15 dedicated workers – five per county – who are looking to make a true difference in the lives of our children by giving them the tools they need to lead fulfilling, healthy lives.
There are hundreds of reasons to involve our children in the experience of organic gardening. Apart from the benefits of health and nutrition and the avoidance of chemicals,the sheer enjoyment of eating food that is full of flavour becomes a lasting and wonderful experience. Being hands-on with life's most vital nutrition, supports children's awareness and knowlege for immunity within the community experience..!!!

 

Membership is open to all. It is a wonderful way to meet knowledgeable people in the industry and simply a great way to meet others with common interests. We encourage you to attend one or two of our events as a guest. If you missed our event at Cita's Italian Chop House, we just wanted to let you know it was outstanding. The chef really outdid himself serving 10 courses. What we thought was going to be a tasting, turned out to be a Roman food orgy. The service was impeccable and everyone had a fantastic time.