Friday, October 24, 2025 5:30pm - 8:00pm
RAY WARRIOR
ADULT & ME MASQUERADE
AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING OF FOOD, MUSIC, AND COMMUNITY
in partnership with The Evolved Network & Friends
William Ray Elementary School
5631 S. Kimbark Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637
This special event features five celebrated Chicago chefs—Sarah Stegner (Prairie Grass Cafe), Michael Ciapciak (Bang Bang Pie and Biscuits), Darnell Reed (Luella's Southern Kitchen), Tigist Reda (Demera), and Sebastian White (Evolved Kitchen & Garden)—serving up locally sourced dishes in support of something deeply meaningful.
Enjoy a delicious buffet, live music and dancing, a photobooth, and the joy of gathering together—all while helping sustain and grow The Evolved Network’s free programming at Ray Elementary through 2026.
Why it Matters
The Evolved Network’s partnership with Ray Elementary is built on trust, connection, and the shared belief that every child deserves experiences that nourish their sense of self, culture, and possibility. Together, we’ve created a rhythm of programming that feels like an extension of home—where students explore new flavors, learn practical skills, and discover the joy of creating something with their own hands.

Thanks to this partnership, students at Ray:

  • Cook alongside professional chefs and try foods they’ve never experienced before – Building confidence through hands-on learning and the courage to step outside their comfort zones.
  • Share recipes and cooking experiences with their families – Strengthening bonds at home, sparking conversations, and creating shared moments of pride.
  • See role models who reflect their own community – Expanding their sense of possibility and self-worth through representation and mentorship.
  • Experience a sense of belonging and community connection – Discovering that the kitchen and garden are places where they are seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are.

With your support, we can sustain this free programming and expand its reach through 2026—ensuring that the transformative power of care, creativity, and connection continues to thrive at Ray.
Tickets
Reserve your spot today for an evening of exquisite flavors and heartfelt support for the next generation!
Included with your purchase

  • Elevated Buffet
  • Beverage Station
  • Live Music & Dance Floor
  • Photo Booth
Plus, enjoy these special activities from Ray staff

  • Special Adult & Me Dance – Share the dance floor with your student for a night to remember.
  • Photo Booth – Capture the joy and laughter of the evening.
  • Ad Book – Celebrate our community and partners with a keepsake program.
  • Silent Auction – Bid on unique items and experiences to benefit Ray programming.
  • Flower Sale – Take home a fresh bouquet while supporting the cause.
  • Marquee Fundraiser – Make your mark! For $10, have your name (and photo) proudly displayed on the school marquee for the week of the event.
Participating Chefs
  • Sarah Stegner
    Prairie Grass Cafe
  • Darnell Reed
    Luella's Southern Kitchen
  • Michael Ciapciak
    Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits
  • Tigist Reda
    Demera
  • Sebastian White
    Evolved Kitchen & Garden