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Big Catz Culinary Gala 2026: Celebrating 20 Years of Growth
Twenty years ago, Darren Chapman planted a seed in South Phoenix. On Thursday, April 2nd, TigerMountain Foundation is gathering 65 of its closest friends, supporters, and community members to celebrate everything that’s grown from it.
The Big Catz Culinary Gala 2026 is our annual fundraising soirée — and this year’s evening carries special meaning.
A Night of Celebration and Transition
This year’s gala honors two beloved leaders as they step into exciting new seasons.
Darren Chapman, founder and CEO, is transitioning into national and global external leadership — carrying TigerMountain’s mission beyond South Phoenix to audiences and communities across the country and world.
Jan Doughty is celebrating a well-earned retirement after years of dedicated service to the foundation and the community it serves.
Together, their journeys represent everything TigerMountain stands for: people who show up, give everything, and leave things better than they found them.
What to Expect
The evening opens at 5 PM with registration and a reception, with the formal program beginning at 6 PM.
A Farm-to-Table Culinary Experience Five talented local chefs are bringing the flavors of the community to the table:
- Rodney Smith
- Michelle Daniels
- Pamela Coleman
- Jaqueline Betha-Isidore
- Marvis Floyd
Live Music David Moore and The Moores Code Band will be performing live throughout the evening.
An Intimate Evening — Only 65 Seats
This event is intentionally small. With just 65 guests, the Big Catz Culinary Gala is designed to feel like a gathering rather than a ceremony — a room full of people who genuinely care about this community and this mission, coming together around great food and great company.
Tickets are $100 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for those looking to make a larger contribution to the evening.
Come for the food. Stay for the inspiration. Be part of the next 20 years.