– May 2, 2025 –
Ann Storck Center, a Fort Lauderdale-based private nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is excited to host its 29th Annual Celebrity Chefs event on May 2 from 6 to 10 p.m., at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood’s Grand Ballroom in Hollywood. Touted as one of South Florida’s most sought-after fundraisers, the event is expected to be bigger and better than ever with over 400 of South Florida’s top community leaders, impactful philanthropists and influencers in attendance. The event will raise awareness, funds and “glasses” to support the Ann Storck Center, which accommodates 96 residents and serves more than 300 individuals daily through an array of critical care, learning and ability-focused programs. The event will feature an open bar sponsored by Republic National Distributing Company along with tastings from over 20 of South Florida’s renowned restaurants, breweries and bakeries. Featured restaurants to date include Abiaka at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood; Anthony’s Clam House and Grill; Burlock Coast at The Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale; Bob Roth’s New River Groves; Bravo Peruvian Kitchen; Casa Calabria; DiSalvo’s Italian Restaurant; Georgia Pig; Howard’s Market & Deli; Livia Bar & Grill; Mimi’s Ravioli; Tarpon River Catering; Tasteful Thoughts; Twisted Roots Kava Brewery; and Tulio’s Tacos and Tequila Bar. Florida Panthers Arena Host Aaron “The Speaker” Shapiro with Rock with U Entertainment will excite and engage the crowd. Guests will enjoy an evening of unforgettable entertainment and a special musical performance presented by Ann Storck Center’s heARTS Music Therapy Department. Ann Storck Center will present Ray and Kim Slapikas with the Legacy Award and Tom West, vice president and chief information officer of Nova Southeastern University Florida, with the Community Leadership Award. Kim Slapikas is the great-niece of Ann Storck. An Ann Storck Center team member will be surprised with the All-Heart Staff Award. Since its inception, Ann Storck Center’s Celebrity Chefs event has raised nearly $5.6 million dollars to support Ann Storck Center’s mission, which is throughout all of its programs and services to discover ability and build independence so that individuals live happier, more independent, fulfilling lives. “It’s an honor to host our 29th Annual Celebrity Chefs event at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood,” said Patricia Murphy, CEO of Ann Storck Center. “The event will be one-of-kind with interactive entertainment, auction items for the whole family, some fun surprises throughout the evening and bites for any foodie’s desire.” Ann Storck Center (ASC) is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an array of critical care, learning and ability focused programs. ASC has been serving the community for more than 65 years, originally known as the Pediatric Care Center, then in 1981 becoming ASC. Today, ASC accommodates over 300 individuals on six separate sites including a school/therapy center, adult day training program, two intermediate care facilities offering specialized residential services, as well as four group homes embedded in the community offering a more independent lifestyle.