Proceeds from 21st annual event to benefit local non-profits

What started as a social event by a few employees 21 years ago, has now grown into an annual staple in the community to raise money and awareness for local organizations.

The 21st annual Taste of Jessamine is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, May 11 at the R.J. Corman Hangar 2. Located at 101 Corman Drive, the event is sponsored by the local First Southern National Bank. Tickets are available in advance at 204 Fairfield Drive, or from any of the recipients of the evening’s benefit. Tickets will also be available at the door. Prices are $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Organizations who receive benefits are chosen by the Jessamine County First Southern team, and proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Jessamine County Food Pantry, Revive Ministries and Lord’s Legacy Life Ministries, Inc.

“This started as an initiative of a few employees years ago to come up with a social event to gain awareness and raise money for community organizations,” Christine Endicott of Lord’s Legacy Ministries said. “We wanted to make this both enjoyable and memorable for the community.”

Endicott said the event will feature a silent auction and dishes from local chefs. Those who wish can also choose to sponsor a table or make a financial donation to the organizations benefiting from the event.

“(Sponsoring a table)  gives the organization exposure with an individual table to display company information throughout the night,” Endicott said. “In addition, they have placement for brochures. Our biggest hope is that we get exposure for the organizations who are doing great work in our community as well as raising money for their needs.”

Endicott said those who wish to make a donation do not have to be present in order to do so.

She said in past years, memorable donations to the silent auction included a trip to Gatlinburg, pearls, a hot air balloon ride, R.J. Corman train trips and furniture.

“It’s a great event to socialize and meet with the community leaders and raise money for some great community organizations,” Endicott said. “In addition to the food being spectacular, it comes at a great cost.”

Sam Lee, community president for Jessamine County First Southern National Bank, said the Taste of Jessamine event has been something they truly embrace.

“This has become a labor of love for our entire team at First Southern,” Lee said. “This is a way we can touch so many organizations and our community in a unique way that has continued to grow into one of the premier events in Jessamine County.”

For more information call 859-885-2400 or go online to www.fsnb.net