‘Fired Up for Hope’ ignites community spirit in Cuenca
By Sandy Kraft
On Sunday, May 24th, the aroma of wood smoke and barbecue filled the air as friends, families, and supporters gathered for Fired Up for Hope — or Encendido por la Esperanza — a community fundraiser benefiting Mujeres con Exito.
“The Fired Up for Hope” barbeque fundraiser for Mujeres con Exito on May 24 was a sell-out.
Hosted by Carolina Smokehouse, the event brought together great food, live music, raffle prizes, and an extraordinary spirit of generosity. More than a barbecue, it became a celebration of community and the people who came together to support an important cause.
A Celebration of Food and Collaboration
At the center of the event was a talented culinary team that donated their time, creativity, and hard work.
Chef Judith Ximena Sirlopu Chero from Tiki Taco brought professionalism to the event.
The grill stayed busy serving the large crowd.
Chef Jhonathon Camacho of Aji Dulce contributed his distinctive culinary style and enthusiasm, helping craft a menu guests continued talking about long after the event ended.
Managing the fires and smokers were two dedicated pitmasters.
Felix Salinas from King Smokehouse brought patience, experience, and a true love of barbecue craftsmanship. Alongside him, David Kraft from Carolina Smokehouse helped organize and guide the event from start to finish, ensuring everything came together smoothly.
Together, the chefs and pitmasters created a memorable menu inspired by South American flavors, featuring slow-smoked meats, grilled specialties, and comforting barbecue favorites.
Mujeres con Exito at the Heart of the Event
The women of Mujeres con Exito played a vital role throughout the fundraiser. From coordinating the kitchen and assisting with service to organizing countless behind-the-scenes details, they worked tirelessly to support the event and welcome guests.
The “Fired up for hope” organizing team.
Their dedication reflected the mission of the organization itself — empowering and supporting women through community connection and opportunity.
Volunteers and Community Support
Fired Up for Hope succeeded because of an incredible team of volunteers who handled everything from guest assistance and raffle coordination to food service and cleanup.
Special thanks go to Mary and Gis, whose energy and friendliness behind the bar helped create the warm, welcoming atmosphere guests enjoyed throughout the afternoon.
The event also featured live musicians whose performances added excitement and joy, turning the fundraiser into a lively community celebration filled with laughter, conversation, and connection. Many thanks to Michael Wanner, who organized the music and entertainers, including Barry Callen and Frieda Stanberg.
Generous Sponsors and Donors
Local businesses and sponsors played a major role in the success of Fired Up for Hope. Restaurants, cafés, hotels, wellness businesses, and entrepreneurs generously donated raffle prizes, dining experiences, hotel stays, gift certificates, cooking classes, and financial support.
Their contributions helped raise funds for Mujeres con Exito while demonstrating the strong sense of community that exists throughout Cuenca.
The raffle became one of the highlights of the day, with attendees enthusiastically supporting the cause while hoping to win prizes donated by so many generous local businesses.
More Than a Fundraiser
What made Fired Up for Hope memorable was the sense of unity created throughout the day. People from different backgrounds came together to support women, celebrate local talent, and strengthen community ties.
By the end of the evening, volunteers were tired, the smokers had cooled, and raffle winners headed home smiling. But the impact of the event extended far beyond a single afternoon. Fired Up for Hope raised $2700 to support the mission of Mujeres con Exito and the important work they continue to do in the community.
It was truly an afternoon fueled by food, friendship, and hope.
