One of the best things about Lori’s Hands is the special relationships that develop between community members and student volunteers. Each friendship is unique, sweetened by the shared experiences of two people. Each has its own story to tell.
Estelle Tracy feels the same way about craft chocolate. And that makes Lori’s Hands Does Chocolate such a wonderful way to celebrate the power of personal connection.
More than 110 people will join Tracy – owner of 37 Chocolates – in a virtual tasting on April 25. The event, which also includes music by Amorous Ebony as well as fun raffles to win, features three types of handcrafted chocolates that have already been delivered to participants. Each handcrafted chocolate has a story of its own that Tracy will share as participants nosh on the sweet goodness. Thanks to the generosity of Lori’s Hands donors, our clients and student volunteers also will share in this tasting event for free.
“Craft chocolate comes with a sense of place and a sense of people, which is the thing that is missing when you buy something that is mass produced,” Tracy said. “I have a relationship with the chocolate makers, and I know why they make what they do.”
Tracy started her business after a challenge to sample 37 different types of chocolates before her 37th birthday. What she calls her excuse to eat a lot of chocolate led to the discovery of her passion for quality chocolate and the people who make it. For the last five years, she has hosted virtual and in-person tastings, sharing not only tasty chocolate but the stories behind their creation.
“The goal of these tastings is to expand people’s horizons and perception of chocolate,” she said. “Unlike, say beer or wine or even coffee, we actually grow up with chocolate. It’s a very nostalgic food.”
The tasting will feature a “surprisingly mild” dark chocolate bar made with 87% cacao as well as two other bars made with unrefined cane sugar. Each is made by a small company with its own backstory. Tracy said one chocolate was created because a friend of the chocolate maker wanted a treat to enjoy. She will share these stories and others throughout the tasting.
For those attending the virtual event, she recommends a glass of warm water to cleanse your palate, or perhaps a piece of bread for eating between bars. Participants also may be surprised how close they feel to those at the event, even if everyone is connected virtually.
“Chocolate is a food we tend to eat alone, as like an indulgence,” she said. “As I have done this, I realized the experience of tasting chocolate is so much better when you share it with other people.”
To sponsor a student or client to attend the event or to purchase a raffle ticket, visit the event page.
