For the last six months I have been working with a group of volunteers and staff members from the United Way of Greater St. Louis to help plan an event called Chocolate, Wine & All That Jazz.

When I first heard that the United Way needed volunteers for an event that included FOUR of my favorite things – Chocolate, Wine, Jazz and the United Way – I was so excited… But nothing compares to the excitement I’m experiencing now, because the event is just two weeks away!

Chocolate, Wine & All That Jazz is taking place at Chandler Hill Vineyards in Defiance, MO, from 6 pm until 9 pm on Saturday, August 29.

Tickets are $55 per person, or $100 per couple, and include eight wine tastings, chocolate tastings, hors d’oeuvres and a concert by the Erin Bode Band. We’re also accepting canned food donations at the door.

I know that for a lot of people $55 is a lot to spend right now. Do know that, if you decide to come to the event, your tax-deductible donation will be put to good use.

Chocolate, Wine & All That Jazz is this year’s kick-off event for the United Way’s 2009 Annual Campaign for the 16 counties in the St. Louis metro area. This year, requests for the United Way’s help have gone up 20% and 70% of those new requests are from people who are reaching out to the United Way for the first time.

In addition to all of the the yummy treats and sweet music, there will be all sorts of gift basket raffles and games so you can bring goodies home to enjoy, too!

If you would like to find out more about the event and purchase tickets, please visit the United Way’s web site: http://www2.stl.unitedway.org/chocolatewineandallthatjazz