A Lesson That Lasts: Pat’s Story of Giving Back

Pat Wells’ first connection to the Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund, a program of Emeril Lagasse Foundation, came while watching a cooking show featuring Chef Aarón. As he spoke about giving back and supporting young people, Pat heard a familiar Muhammad Ali quote —one her grandmother had often shared: “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”

The moment stopped her in her tracks. The value of service had long been a guiding principle in Pat’s life, and hearing it echoed in Chef Aarón’s words inspired her to learn more about the Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund and ultimately get involved.

Pat became a monthly supporter, drawn to the Impact Fund’s focus on mentorship, access, and opportunity for aspiring young chefs. Her support began quietly and consistently.

“I wanted to know that the money was being put to good use,” Pat said. “That’s what matters to me.”

At Aarón y Amigos 2024, an Emeril Lagasse Foundation signature fundraising event, Pat took her support a step further by purchasing an auction lot that took her and her daughter to Arizona for a culinary weekend at TERRA Farm + Manor. There, her connection to Chef Aarón, fellow supporters, and the values that guide her giving were strengthened.

While the experience included memorable moments—thoughtful meals, time learning about ingredients raised on the ranch and a birthday serenade from Chef Aarón —what stayed with Pat was the deeper understanding of what her support helps make possible, and the importance of being able to share that meaning with her daughter.

“Getting to meet people and attend events is frosting on the cake,” she said. “The cake is knowing your money went to do something good. When people join in together that’s how real change happens. That’s how you make something lasting.”

This perspective continues to shape how Pat thinks about her commitment and the difference individual supporters can make.