Winter Jam has become one of those local nights that people genuinely look forward to each year, not just because it’s a fun evening out but because it directly supports students in our community. 

Hosted by the Cape Henlopen Educational Foundation (CHEF), this signature fundraiser brings together educators, families, alumni, and local supporters for live music, food, and fundraising activities that help power programs across the Cape Henlopen School District.

When and Where Winter Jam Is Happening

CHEF Winter Jam will be held Friday, March 6th, from 7 to 11 p.m., at the Rusty Rudder (113 Dickinson Ave, Dewey Beach).

Proceeds benefit educational programs serving more than 6,500 students in the Cape Henlopen School District, which includes communities such as Lewes, Rehoboth, and Milton.

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What CHEF Does for Students and Classrooms

CHEF’s work is designed to fill gaps where public funding doesn’t always stretch far enough. 

Since 2006, CHEF has contributed more than $483,000 in grant funds for teachers and students. 

The foundation supports educators and students through grants and targeted initiatives that strengthen learning and reduce barriers for students who need extra support.

CHEF’s funding priorities include:

• Teacher grants for unfunded or underfunded classroom projects
• Support for homeless and limited-income students
• STEM initiatives that expand hands-on learning opportunities
• Performing arts education and enrichment
• Training and programs focused on diversity and inclusion

Over the years, these efforts have helped teachers bring ideas to life that might otherwise stay stuck on a wish list.

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A Community Night With a Purpose

Winter Jam is often described as part fundraiser, part community reunion. 

CHEF President Calvin Jackson calls it an annual gathering point for Cape Region community members and educators, and it remains the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year. 

The reason is simple: many of the enrichment programs CHEF supports would not happen without donations and community participation.

That local feel is part of what makes Winter Jam stand out. 

It’s not a formal banquet where you sit quietly at a table. It’s a lively night that still keeps the focus on the mission.

Music, Small Bites, and Fundraising Fun

This year’s Winter Jam will feature musical entertainment by the Blue Label Band, along with plenty of opportunities to contribute to the cause throughout the night. 

Guests can expect small bites, auction items, and a live gift card pull, which adds a little extra excitement while raising additional funds.

If you’re the type of person who likes a night out that includes great music and a reason to feel good about being there, this event is built for that.

How CHEF Has Grown Over Time

CHEF’s history goes back to a broader countywide effort. 

In 1999, the Delaware Educational Foundation was formed as a Sussex County school district vehicle to raise funds for educational initiatives. 

In 2006, the charter was amended to create the Cape Henlopen Educational Foundation, focused specifically on the Cape Henlopen School District.

The foundation’s early goals included teacher grants, scholarships for future teachers (with a focus on encouraging minority applicants), support for extracurriculars like arts and athletics, and backing for district recognition programs. 

While priorities have evolved, the core mission has stayed consistent: providing resources that help CHSD students excel and reach their potential.

Since the mid-2000s, CHEF has built a strong track record of supporting schools through both direct grants and broader student-focused initiatives. 

Since 2006, CHEF has contributed more than $483,000 in grant funds for teachers and students. 

The organization also reports that from 2007 to the present, it has funded approximately 458 grant requests totaling more than $411,000, supporting needs ranging from anti-bullying and homeless programs to arts scholarships and career-focused initiatives.

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Ticket Prices and Who Can Attend

Winter Jam is open to the wider community, with ticket pricing structured to make it easier for Cape district employees to attend.

Tickets are:

• $40 each for Cape district employees (limit of 2)
• $60 per person for the general public

Because this is CHEF’s major annual fundraiser, attendance and ticket sales are one of the most direct ways community members can help support student programs.

Sponsorship Levels for Businesses and Supporters

For local businesses and community members who want to contribute at a higher level, Winter Jam also offers sponsorship opportunities. 

Tiers include:

• $10,000 – The Valedictorian
• $8,000 – Academic Challenge Scholar
• $5,000 – Student Government Leader
• $2,500 – Honor Roll Student
• $1,000 – The Trendsetter
• $500 – Teacher’s Pet

Sponsorships help CHEF expand what it can fund each year, and they also show visible support for public education in a district that serves thousands of families across coastal Sussex County.

Why Winter Jam Matters in Coastal Delaware

In a growing area like ours, schools are constantly balancing changing student needs, evolving curriculum goals, and the reality that not every classroom project fits neatly into a budget line. 

Organizations like CHEF make a difference by giving teachers and students extra tools and by supporting programs that improve access, enrichment, and engagement.

Winter Jam is a reminder that supporting schools doesn’t have to look like a meeting or a donation drive. 

Sometimes it looks like a packed dance floor, a few bites with friends, a fundraiser raffle, and a community choosing to show up.

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