Name: Roots to Roofs Farm-to-Table Experience
Start: 2025-09-03T18:00:00-04:00
End: 2025-09-03T21:00:00-04:00
Location: Deerwoode Reserve

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A Roots to Roofs Farm-to-Table Experience

Join us on Friday, September 3, 2025, from 5:30–8:30 PM at the enchanting Deerwoode Reserve for the Roots to Roofs Farm-to-Table Experience. Set against rolling mountain vistas and lush woodlands, this curated evening brings together the very best of Transylvania County’s local farms, producers, and artisanal purveyors.

Enjoy a four-course plated farm-to-table dinner prepared by four of Western North Carolina’s most talented chefs, each bringing their own unique vision to locally sourced, seasonal cuisine. Expect interactive “meet the chef” moments, expertly paired regional wines, and an immersive celebration of sustainable, community-driven dining. All proceeds will raise vital funds for affordable housing and hurricane recovery.

About Transylvania Habitat for Humanity

For 40 years, Transylvania Habitat for Humanity has empowered local families through affordable, energy-efficient homeownership. From humble beginnings as a small group of passionate volunteers, we have grown into a community-driven movement—building 82 homes in Transylvania County and partnering with dozens of local businesses, civic groups, and faith organizations along the way.

Our commitment extends beyond home construction. Through our Critical Repair Program, we help the most vulnerable members of our community remain safe and healthy in their homes—completing 163 repairs since 2023. In addition, our work includes vital hurricane recovery efforts along North Carolina’s coast, supporting families facing both immediate and long-term rebuilding needs.

When you join us at Roots to Roofs, you’re not just enjoying an unforgettable evening—you’re investing in stronger families, safer neighborhoods, and a brighter future for our entire region. Thank you for helping us put down roots and raise roofs together.

Transylvania Habitat for Humanity created Roots to Roofs

Meet the Chefs

James Hargis

Executive Chef

Chef James Hargis is the owner and executive chef of The Blind Mule in Brevard, NC. His culinary journey began at the age of 15, training in Michelin-starred kitchens during the 1980s under chefs like Jean Banchet at Chicago’s Le Français. His career includes roles at upscale resorts and Relais & Châteaux properties, bringing deep experience to his family-run restaurant. Today, Chef Hargis mentors talent, refines his craft and celebrates the flavors of Southern Appalachia.

Peter Brinkerhoff

Executive Chef

Chef Peter Brinkerhoff, the Executive Chef at The Greystone Inn, brings decades of culinary expertise shaped by 20+ years in Lake Tahoe, where he led the Tahoe Restaurant Collection. A lifelong chef who began cooking at 13, Peter has trained under Olympic-winning chefs and thrives on discovering obscure ingredients. At The Greystone, he blends classical precision with inventive, locally inspired menus that celebrate the bounty and heritage of Western North Carolina.

Valerie Gerdes

Executive Chef

Chef Val Gerdes brings a passionate creativity for food from Los Angeles to Brevard. As the owner and executive chef of Wood & Vine, she offers a communal dining experience centered around wood-fired, seasonal dishes. Her menu emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, reflecting her deep commitment to sustainability. With a background in high-end hospitality and a love of bold, balanced flavors, Val crafts meals that connect people through shared experience.

Joshua Payne

Executive Chef

Chef Joshua Payne is an emerging culinary talent in Brevard, NC, leading the revival of the beloved Old Hickory House through Payne & Partners Culinary Arts. With a passion for creating memorable dining experiences, he offers private chef services & intimate Chef’s Table events. Joshua’s approach merges Southern traditions with fine-dining techniques, delivering soulful, story-rich cuisine that highlights local ingredients & supports the region’s food economy.

Be Part of the Transformation

Together, we are not just sharing a meal—we are weaving a stronger, more connected community across Transylvania County. Your ticket directly supports Transylvania Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build safe, energy-efficient homes and deliver critical relief for families recovering from hurricanes. This includes everything from emergency roof repairs to long-term resilience planning.

During the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to hear inspiring stories from local families whose lives have been transformed through Habitat’s programs. (These stories will be shared through a special video presentation at the event.) You’ll also get to meet Habitat staff and see firsthand how your contribution makes a real difference.

Because seating is strictly limited, this exclusive evening will sell out fast. Reserve your seat today to dine with purpose and leave a lasting impact.

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Roots to Roofs Farm-to-Table Experience banner: illustration of a rustic farmhouse cabin nestled in a wildflower meadow, flanked by tall pine and oak trees, with rolling hills and a glowing sunrise on the horizon.

Transylvania Habitat for Humanity is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are 100% tax deductible as a charitable gift for federal income tax purposes.

In accepting and rejecting applications, Transylvania Habitat for Humanity must conform to all aspects of the Fair Housing Act and all Fair Housing Laws, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Privacy Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as any local applicable laws as they apply to applications for a mortgage.