Six-time James Beard Semi-Finalist Headlines Third Annual Fork & Cork Chef’s Dinner

A signature fundraiser, the Fork & Cork Chef’s Dinner, presented by Children’s Harbor will support families in need of emergency financial assistance, mental health counseling, and more services offered at The Harbor Family Center, located within the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children. The event is headlined by Executive Chef and six-time James Beard semi-finalist, Rob McDaniel, at his award-winning Birmingham-based restaurant Helen, taking place August 18 with cocktails at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Attire for the evening is “smart casual.” Individual tickets are $500 per person, or purchase tickets for a table of eight at $3,500. A limited number of tickets will be available for purchase until Sunday, August 10. For tickets and more information, please visit www.childrensharbor.com.

Birmingham-based nonprofit Children’s Harbor strengthens families of seriously ill children through refuge, respite, and resources. The Harbor, located within Children’s of Alabama, serves children battling life-altering medical diagnoses and their families. Specifically designed to address the mental and physical needs of these families, The Harbor offers access to medically knowledgeable and licensed counselors free of charge to families. Other amenities at The Harbor include the most recently installed pool table and air hockey table in addition to laundry facilities, a salon, pinball machines, a library, gymnasium, nap rooms, basketball court, and more, centered around a family’s needs during hospital stays or treatments.

“The Fork & Cork Chef’s Dinner is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose,” said Cat Outzen, CEO of Children’s Harbor. “Because of the continued generosity of our sponsors, donors, and supporters, we’re able to stand beside families facing the challenges of serious childhood illness, giving them a sense of belonging and comfort in times of uncertainty.”

Rob McDaniel has passion for helping those in need. “My wife and I have known about the incredible work of Children’s Harbor for seventeen years now. In that span of time, our connection has only deepened as we’ve seen how they continue to serve families walking through some of life’s most challenging moments, providing a safe haven and allowing children the chance to just be kids, even during adversity. We’re honored to support their mission here in Birmingham through The Harbor Family Center and are excited to be part of its continued impact in our community.”

For more information, please call Lauren Marino at (205) 807-5778 or Allie Hendrix at (334) 300-8019.

About Children’s Harbor

Children’s Harbor provides refuge, respite, and resources to families with children who have experienced a life-altering medical diagnosis. The families and caregivers we serve seek a safe refuge when faced with unexpected life circumstances. Our comprehensive services complement medical treatment through thoughtful efforts which

anticipate needs, focus on mental and social wellbeing, and offer a built-in support system familiar with each family’s unique situation. These no-cost services are offered at The Harbor Family Center at Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham and at the Lake Martin retreat facility in Alexander City.