Gilchrist Presents: The 40th (Ruby) Anniversary Taste of Howard County
On Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., Gilchrist will host the 40th (Ruby) Anniversary of the Taste of Howard County at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City. This beloved community tradition brings together more than 25 of Howard County’s finest restaurants, caterers, and bakeries—all in support of Gilchrist Center Howard County, the county’s only hospice care center. Special thanks to Premier Presenting Sponsor McCabe Insurance Associates Inc. and presenting sponsors Harry H. Witzke’s Family Funeral Home, and Johns Hopkins Medicine Howard County Medical Center for helping make this event possible. See full list of sponsors here.
“The support of our sponsors is what allows Taste of Howard County to shine year after year. Their generosity not only makes this event possible, but it also ensures that every family in Howard County has access to hospice services and the compassionate care provided at Gilchrist Center Howard County. We are deeply grateful for their partnership in carrying our mission forward.”- Diane Daniels, Director of Development, Howard County
Celebrating the Gems of Our Community
Gilchrist patients and their families, along with doctors, nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, volunteers, and donors, are the real jewels of Howard County. This year’s ruby anniversary is a chance to honor each of these precious gems while celebrating four decades of compassionate care and community support. Guests are encouraged to join the fun by dressing in red or sparkling, jewel-toned attire for an evening of casual elegance.
“Taste of Howard County is such a special event because it brings the entire community together—our families, friends, local restaurants, and supporters—all to ensure compassionate care at Gilchrist Center Howard County. It’s a celebration of good food, good company, and the generosity that makes our mission possible.” – Julie Kolankiewicz, Annual Giving and Special Events.
A Taste of Howard County
The restaurants truly put the “Taste” in Taste of Howard County. Guests can sample everything from sweet desserts at Touche Touchet Bakery to craft coffee at Orinoco Coffee & Tea, to fresh seafood from Hudson Coastal, to Italian specialties from Tino’s Italian Bistro, to local brews from Manor Hill Brewing—and much more. With more than 25 restaurants represented, there will be something to satisfy every palate. In addition to the culinary delights, the evening will include a brief program honoring Gilchrist’s mission, a raffle, and feature a silent and live auction, with Auctioneer Steve Wecker, of Wecker Hospitality.
Supporting Compassionate Care
Proceeds from Taste of Howard County benefit Gilchrist Center Howard County, where patients and families receive round-the-clock hospice care in a warm, home-like environment. Funds raised ensure that compassionate care is available to everyone in need, regardless of their ability to pay.
Join Us
Mark your calendars and gather your family and friends for this special ruby anniversary celebration. Together, we’ll honor the gems of Howard County and support the work of Gilchrist, which provides hospice, palliative and geriatric care, and grief support to over 5,000 Howard County residents each year.
Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Location: Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City
Tickets & Information: https://GilchristTaste.givesmart.com
For questions, please get in touch with Julie Kolankiewicz: jkolankiewicz@gilchristcares.org
For sponsorship information, please contact Diane Daniels: drdaniels@gilchristcares.org