Dear Men Who Cook Volunteer,
We’re ready to fire up the ovens and crank up the burners for 2026 MEN WHO COOK presented by CITGO—Will County’s tastiest fundraiser! This year’s competition is Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 6–9 PM at the Joliet Junior College Event Center, 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet.
I personally invite YOU to show off your culinary skills as a participating cook while helping raise money to support the Will County Children’s Advocacy Center, which provides hope, healing and justice to children ages 3–17 who have endured severe physical abuse, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, child pornography, neglect, and exposure to violence.
WHAT IS MEN WHO COOK?
MEN WHO COOK presented by CITGO features local men who prepare their favorite appetizer/side dish, entrée or dessert and serve bite-size samples to more than 1,000 hungry guests in a friendly, spirited competition. And the best part? The guests are the judges! Attendees vote for their favorite dishes, with prizes awarded to the cooks whose recipes are most popular.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- There is NO registration fee to participate as a cook.
- Cooks are responsible for purchasing their food and serving supplies.
- We provide heating racks, Sternos, plates, napkins and eating utensils.
- Each cook should prepare enough food for approximately 500–800 two-ounce samples for guests to taste.
- Cooks are encouraged to decorate their serving area and wear fun, creative attire to entice guests to sample their cuisine.
- The event is videotaped and broadcast on local cable television and shared across social media—a great opportunity to promote your business, organization or personal culinary skills!
- Each cook may bring ONE assistant, who is admitted free. All other guests must purchase tickets online or at the door.
- 100% of MEN WHO COOK presented by CITGO proceeds benefit the Will County Children’s Advocacy Center and its critical advocacy, Forensic Interviews and trauma therapy services.
READY TO COOK?
To register, complete the online COOK REGISTRATION FORM by September 25, 2026. Only the first 43 cooks will be accepted—so don’t wait!
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact:
Lisa Morel Las, Executive Director
Will County Children’s Advocacy Center
lmlas@willcountysao.gov
(815) 641-7986
The overwhelming success of MEN WHO COOK presented by CITGO is driven by the tremendous spirit, camaraderie and enthusiasm of our cooks. Thank you in advance for being part of this very special event.
I look forward to seeing YOU at the competition—for a fun, delicious and profitable night!
Sincerely,
James W. Glasgow
Will County State’s Attorney
