‘Epic’ event features preschool drug dealer to raise money for children in need

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The city is gearing up for an evening of cooking competitions, community spirit and charitable giving as next week marks the return of Epic Evening for an Epic Cause. The annual fundraiser to benefit the Methodist Home for Children will take place Sept. 5 at UNCW's Burney Center.

The event is the Methodist Home for Children's main fundraiser, with all proceeds going to help needy children in the community.

“This is our only major fundraiser we do each year, and all the money raised stays here locally,” said Patrons Committee Chairman Jeff Sumrell.

The Epic Evening is a competition where local chefs, traders and brewers showcase their skills and compete for various prizes, including the coveted Copper Kettle Award.

“It's a blind judging, everyone gets a chance to put together their best dish and the judges make their decisions,” said Sumrell. “The People's Choice Awards also allow the audience to make their own choices.”

Attendees also have the opportunity to participate in silent and live auctions. Local churches have contributed themed baskets for the silent auction, while the live auction offers larger packages such as deep sea fishing trips, spa days and more.

This year's keynote speaker is Dana Trent, whose remarkable life story will captivate the audience.

“She has a very interesting story,” Sumrell said. “From being a drug dealer in preschool to being the author of eight books, a graduate of Duke University, a professor, an ordained minister and a Pilates instructor, she's a really long conversation.”

The “Epic Evening for an Epic Cause” begins at 6 p.m. on September 5 at UNCW’s Burney Center. Tickets are available online and all proceeds will benefit local children through the Methodist Home for Children.