In a heartwarming display of solidarity, a group of Ukrainian Americans and their supporters gathered at Pop's Sunset Grill in Nokomis, Florida, for a dinner that raised a remarkable $100,000 for Ukraine's National Rehabilitation Center UNBROKEN. The event, organized by the proprietor Joe Farrell and his wife Kristen, along with former Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) president Andriy Futey, brought together renowned chefs and philanthropists to support the war-torn country.

Uniting for Ukraine's Healing and Resilience

Answering the Call to Help

Joe Farrell, the proprietor of the popular Pop's Sunset Grill, was deeply moved by his recent trip to Ukraine with Andriy Futey, celebrated chef Giancarla Bodoni, and celebrity cook Rachael Ray. Witnessing the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict firsthand, Farrell was determined to do his part in supporting the country's recovery efforts. Collaborating with his network of industry connections, Farrell set out to organize a fundraising event that would make a tangible difference.

A Culinary Celebration of Resilience

The November 7th dinner was a true culinary showcase, featuring the talents of renowned chefs. James Beard Award-winning chef Kevin Nashan, James Beard Award-nominated chef Lindsay Autry, and the renowned Giancarla Bodoni, who flew in from Tuscany, joined forces with the culinary team at Pop's Sunset Grill to create an exceptional dining experience. The menu featured a tantalizing array of dishes, including deviled Florida stone crab, cacio e pepe filled ravioli, and a mouthwatering lamb Wellington.

Raising Funds for Ukraine's Rehabilitation

The event was priced at $1,000 per plate, and the attendees were eager to contribute to the cause. In addition to the sumptuous meal, the evening included exclusive live auction experiences that further boosted the fundraising efforts. The goal of $100,000 was not only met but exceeded, thanks to the generosity and commitment of the attendees.

Empowering Ukraine's Recovery

The funds raised during the event will directly support the UCCA's joint project with Rachael Ray for the UNBROKEN National Rehabilitation Center in Ukraine. This initiative aims to design and equip an operational kitchen that will provide meals for 4,000 patients three times a day, a vital step in the country's rehabilitation and recovery efforts.

Extending Compassion Beyond Borders

While the primary focus of the event was to support Ukraine, the organizers also recognized the need to assist those affected by the recent hurricanes in Florida. A portion of the funds raised was directed towards a local hospitality relief fund, providing much-needed aid to industry workers who lost their livelihoods due to the natural disasters.The success of this fundraising dinner is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the unwavering spirit of the Ukrainian people. As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing conflict, events like this serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can rise to the occasion and make a meaningful difference.