Best Buddies

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Monday, December 5, 2022

Hosted at Convention Center | 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

6:00PM: VIP Hour

7:00PM: General Admission

8:30PM: Program

8:25pm: Silent Auction Closes

TasteBuds is a unique tasting event that features talented chefs from around the Greater Pittsburgh area serving signature dishes and demonstrating the power of friendship. Chefs are paired with individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities (IDD), who serve as sous-chefs for the evening. Guests will sample an array of culinary delights and enjoy drinks at the open bar.

Over the past few years, our local office shifted temporarily to a virtual Champion of the Year gala, a philanthropic competition uniting inclusion leaders in our community. Superseding Champion of the Year is TasteBuds! With a return to in-person events, TasteBuds is back, and we could not forget about our Champions of Inclusion!

We are thrilled to announce that 5 Champions will be selected for 2022. At the completion of this 10-week campaign, we will crown our Champion of the Year at TasteBuds.

The evening will also include live entertainment and opportunities to bid on fabulous auction items, all in support of our Friendship & Leadership Programs for individuals with IDD.

Find new flavors. Meet new friends!

Meet the Champions

Meet the Chefs and Sous Chefs

Online Bidding FAQ

How do I participate on GiveSmart?

You must register to place bids, purchases, or a donation. Just follow these steps:

1. Visit this event campaign site.
2. Click Register to Participate.
3. Enter the required information.
4. Click Create my GiveSmart Account

How do I bid on silent or live auction items?
1. Once you are registered - Click the blue link within the Welcome
text or personal link button from within the Welcome email.
2. Choose item - From our Home page, click "Items" , browse then select an item.
3. Choose amount - Use the pre-populated minimum bid or enter a
higher amount. You can also set up Auto bid.
4. Click Bid

How do I know if I have been outbid?

You will be notified via text message if you have been outbid. If you are not receiving text messages make sure you have the correct mobile number under your profile.

How will I know if the auction has closed?

We will provide the date and time of when the auction is closing during the event. You will be notified leading up to the closing via text message. Once it closes and you have won an item you will receive a text message about your win!

I really want an item! How can I better my chances?

That is great news! To keep from being outbid too often, you can set an Auto Bid. The software will automatically bid by your predetermined increment until your max bid has been met or the silent auction ends. Keep an eye on your favorite items throughout the night to make sure you continue to bid!

How do I receive my items if I win?

Congrats! You will receive a text notifying you that you won item(s). You are required to make the payment for your items prior to receiving them the night of the event. You will then receive an email with instructions on receiving or picking up your items.

Please note: All bids are final and binding. There will be no exchanges, alterations, or refunds on items. Please note any restrictions or expiration dates stipulated by the prize donor as noted in the item description. We are not responsible or liable for any discrepancies. All items are "as is".