When World Cares Center created its unique emergency response, collaborative support system 11 years ago, it partnered with some remarkable corporate sponsors to host a one-of-a-kind culinary competition called the Iron Skillet® Cook Off.  The first cook off in 2002 was a “Thank you” to the Firefighters, and one year later, it became World Cares Center’s signature fundraiser. This annual cook off between Firehouse Chefs and world renowned New York restaurant chefs relied on corporate sponsorship to provide the venue, the food, the live auction prizes, and much more. 

The Firehouse Chefs and restaurant Chefs generously gave their time, knowing that 100% of the proceeds would go to help communities coordinate and train for emergency response and disaster preparedness.

With us from the start has been Brooklyn Brewery, the local purveyor of fine crafted beers.  Brooklyn Brewery paired our chef offerings with their award-winning roster of specialty beers like Oktoberfest and Brooklyn Lager.  Also in the spotlight, were other generous sponsors that continue to support WCC’s programs through the Iron Skillet® Cook Off each year including:  Turner Construction Company, RailWorks, London Fischer LLP, Blackstone Financial, and Newmark Knight Frank.  These platinum level sponsors have maintained a commitment to World Cares Center as it redefines emergency response.  This annual fundraiser makes it possible for local community leadership and everyday citizens to make lasting changes in their preparedness plans for a safer tomorrow.  

Other sponsors, such as Crimson in Manhattan, Metronome Hospitality Group, and Dickstein Shapiro LLP, have also continued to give generously throughout the years.  The return on their investment has been far reaching, including the enrichment of their company’s mission as they reach out to their community, in-kind donations that showcase their unique products and venues, and media exposure for ongoing good works.

“World Cares Center and its programs would not exist if not for out corporate sponsors who provide support through finance,donated product and subject matter expertise. The Iron Skillet®  Cook Off is our way of saying thank you and shining a spotlight on those who make our work possible”, said Lisa Orloff, founder of World Cares Center. 

Sign up as a corporate sponsor at the Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze level and start putting your sponsorship dollars to work for you (and so many others).  This is a fun-filled event that you won’t want to miss! 

For tickets and sponsorship information, visit www.ironskilletcookoff.org

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Ever wonder what’s cooking in your local firehouse kitchen?  You might be surprised to find out that it isn’t just standard meat and potatoes.  Our local firehouse heroes can cook! This year, at our annual Iron Skillet® Cook-Off, firehouse chefs and restaurant chefs will do battle for bragging rights and the title of Iron Skillet® Champion.

Ready for some mouthwatering dishes?  In past years, the cook-off menu has included:  Red wine/Pomegranate braised lamb shank, Cajun duck, and Saki glazed tuna.  Longtime sponsor, Brooklyn Brewery, will pair gourmet meals with their fine, crafted beers.  Past beer pairings have featured Brown Ale, Brooklyn Lager, Oktoberfest, and East India Pale Ale.  

This is a night of fun and spirit-building to help support the emergency response resources we depend on each and every day.  Sponsorship of the event allows World Cares Center to continue providing much-needed training programs in emergency preparedness and disaster response.   100% of the proceeds from the event go to training community leaders and neighborhood volunteers, preparing communities to handle emergency situations, and responding to disasters abroad and at home.

Join us on Monday, October 22, at Crimson in Manhattan from 6pm-9pm.  Individual tickets and corporate sponsorship are available.  Visit our website at www.worldcares.org for tickets.  

World Cares Center would like to extend a warm welcome to all our Iron Skillet® Cook Off Competitors.  From the FDNY our participants are Joe Russo of Ladder 156 in Brooklyn, Khalid Baylor of Ladder 14 in Manhattan, Pete Lazarcheck of Engine 291 Ladder 140 in Queens, Ron Venner of Engine 42 in the Bronx, and Robert Marolla of Engine 165 in Staten Island.  Taking on NY Bravest are 3 chefs from NYC, David Martinez of The 5 and Diamond Restaurant, Diane DiMeo of Black Duck, and Matt Fisher of Backyard.  For the first time ever we’ll have also 2 NJ chefs competing, Mike Carrino of Pig & Prince and Jack Koumbis of Assembly Steak House.

Good luck to all competitors!

A special thanks to our early returning sponsors Turner Construction, Blackstone, Metronome Hospitality Group, Newmark Knight Frank, RailWorks, Brooklyn Brewery and Lodge!

Don’t miss this fabulous culinary event that has New York City talking.  It will take place on Monday, October 22, at Crimson in Manhattan.  For tickets and sponsorships please visit our website at www.worldcares.org.  We hope to see you there!