The Washington Multi-Family Housing Association (WMFHA) hosts its 13th annual Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, Oct. 26, a benefit for the Domestic Abuse Women’s Network (DAWN).

The event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tukwila Community Center, 12424 42nd Ave. S.

Chef John Howie will serve as a celebrity judge of the competition. The Seattle Seahawks’ Blue Thunder Drumline, mascot Boom and the Sea Gals will appear. There will be a raffle, silent auction, music, trick-or-treating and a costume contest.

“The Chili Cook-Off event exudes a connection and an environment that really makes my team and the survivors that attend feel great about the partnership,” said Cheryl Kilodavis, former interim executive director of DAWN.

Procceds will support DAWN survivors at the Tukwila Community Center. In 2018 WMFHA raised $46,964, an increase of 29 percent more than the previous year.

“This event allows WMFHA and its members to assist a charitable organization that has been near and dear to our hearts for many years,” said Jim Wiard, executive director of WMFHA. “The work that DAWN does to help those in need aligns with our values. We are pleased to support DAWN and the communities they serve.”

The Chili Cook-Off is a private event for WMFHA members and guests. The organization has donated a total of $194,500 to DAWN in over 12 years of hosting the event. Last year the event attracted more than 500 attendees, 34 sponsors and competitors, 49 in-kind donations and 25 volunteers.

WMFHA is a nonprofit trade association serving the multifamily housing industry. DAWN has impacted more than 360,000 survivors of domestic violence for more than 30 years. DAWN provides survivors with safety planning, emotional support, access to public benefits, job training, emergency shelter, protection orders, legal assistance, housing, immigration assistance to help them rebuild their lives.

For more information, please contact Jim Wiard at 425.656.9077, email jim@wmfha.org or visit wmfha.org.