ATHENS-A pot of chili can warm more than an empty belly. It can warm hearts.
That’s because a chili competition held each February in Athens funds a non-profit organization whose volunteers provide families with support at a loved one’s end of life. These volunteers also provide a camp for children who learn they are not grieving alone.
The 28th annual Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge and Silent Auction will be held on Saturday, Feb. 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Athens High School. This is the only fundraiser for Hospice of Limestone County, the only non-profit Hospice operating in Limestone County.
Executive Director Pat King said Hospice of Limestone County provides services to an average of 40 patients per month. Each year at 
Camp Hope, Hospice of Limestone County offers activities, mentors and comfort to children who are grieving. Camp Hope serves from 50 to nearly 80 children each year.
Chili Challenge organizers are accepting team registrations. There are 32 booth rentals for the chili competition, and eight teams already have registered. Challengers will compete for Critics Choice Award (Group), Critics Choice Award (Individual), People’s Choice Award and Best Booth Design.
The competition is fierce with challengers being secretive about their recipes and adamant about how chili should taste, whether they think it should be spicy, mild, hot or have a sweet heat savor.
The cost to compete is $50. Those interested in competing can call Hospice of Limestone County at 256-232-5017.
Organizers also are collecting items for the Silent Auction. These items can include art, sports memorabilia, gift certificates, children’s collectibles, outdoor décor and more. Businesses or individuals who would like to donate auction items can call 256-232-5017.
The public can support this fundraiser by attending the event. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door. The ticket price includes tasting each chili, lunch, entertainment and the ability to bid on items.
“Please think about supporting our only fundraiser of the year,” said Chili Challenge Chairwoman Amanda Speegle. “It is such a fun event, and I promise that you will benefit from it as much or even more than Hospice of Limestone County.”
According to event organizers, Chili Challenge raises between $40,000 to $50,000 for Camp Hope, in-home respite workers, indigent care that is non-funded care and non-Hospice bereavement counseling.
“I like to call our volunteers and staff angels on earth,” Speegle said. “They are with the families in our community at their most vulnerable and stressful moments. Thanks to the support of our community through Chili Challenge, we can keep these services for our citizens.”
