On the Circuit: Dine to Shine

Last year, Nashville Children’s Alliance investigated more than 2,000 cases of severe child abuse in Middle Tennessee. For many, NCA provides trauma-informed care to children and their families at no cost. This year, like many nonprofits, the organization lost approximately $300,000 in crucial grant funding, making it more difficult to provide care vital to the health and well-being of survivors.

Now in its third year, Dine to Shine serves as NCA’s annual event, pairing some of Nashville’s top culinary talent while raising essential funds to sustain that care for the children and families it serves. The culinary component, led by the team at Noko, brings together chefs from restaurants across Nashville to create dishes for both the reception and the multi-course dinner. As guests entered Saint Elle, they encountered a sophisticated martini wall offering two options — espresso or dirty — depending on their preference.

Guests perused silent auction offerings, where bidding proved competitive. Throughout the space, chefs offered light tastings, though many guests paced themselves in anticipation of dinner — and it did not disappoint. SS Gai’s cabbage salad offered a perfect first bite, followed by Maiz De la Vida’s barbecue broccolini and Curry Boys’ spicy smoked pork dumpling. Noko and Iggy’s International Market also contributed dishes, while D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe provided dessert.

During dinner, NCA Executive Director Dawn Harper spoke about the children who have received trauma-informed care and how funds raised from the evening will support that work. She also presented Diane Lance with the Victor S. Johnson III Visionary Award. Jamie Butera, the parent of a child served by NCA, followed with an eloquent reflection on the program’s impact on her child and their family.

The evening continued with a lively auction that furthered the event’s mission: raising funds to support survivors of childhood abuse and their families.