Chefs Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence

CANDLE joined the YWCA of Cortland County’s 7th Annual Chefs Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence, serving an alcohol-free “Autumn Plum” mocktail.

Published Oct 16, 2026 · 2 min read

Community Connections
Five people smiling behind CANDLE’s station at the gala.
Payton Corl, Stefania Buta, Alison McCabe, Jen Sylstra and Melissa Simmons are smiling for the photo, holding small tasting cups and a bottle of sparkling soda while showcasing their station. The table features a purple tablecloth, rows of sample cups, fresh flowers, a decorative green pumpkin, candle sticks, and warm decorative lighting.

CANDLE was proud to participate in the 7th Annual Chefs Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence event hosted by YWCA of Cortland County in partnership with additional community organizations. Held annually during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this fundraising gala supports the YWCA’s Aid to Victims of Violence (AVV) program, which provides vital support to individuals impacted by domestic violence.

CANDLE was excited to collaborate with Cortland Prevention Resources to offer guests creative, delicious, alcohol-free beverage options, demonstrating that a memorable drink experience does not have to include alcohol.

CANDLE’s Station 23 sign, listing the Autumn Plum mocktail and its ingredients.
CANDLE Coalition’s Station 23 Display at the 7th Annual Chefs Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence event. The display features the “Autumn Plum” Mocktail, created by Ally McCabe & Stefania Buta, Project Director & Data Coordinator CANDLE Coalition. Followed by the listed ingredients, including local plums, bourbon vanilla bean paste, lemon juice, ginger beer, cinnamon, black pepper, turbinado sugar, and flaky sea salt. The sign also includes a QR code for the event voting.

For the event, CANDLE presented “The Autumn Plum,” – a warming spiced plum preserve with bourbon vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and a hint of black pepper topped with ginger beer, fresh plum slices and a spiced-vanilla sugar rim, all 100% alcohol-free and a perfect way to embrace early autumn. The Autumn Plum was created with a purpose beyond seasonal ingredients: to encourage more events and gatherings to offer thoughtful, appealing alcohol-free options. Choosing not to drink should never mean settling for water or a limited selection of beverages. Alcohol-free options can be just as creative, flavorful, and special as their counterparts.

Plum slices simmering in syrup with cinnamon sticks.
Fresh cut local plums simmering in bourbon vanilla syrup with cinnamon sticks, black pepper, and sugar.

CANDLE is grateful to have been a part of an event that brings the community together to raise awareness, support survivors, and contribute to an important local cause. We believe that creating inclusive spaces means ensuring everyone has something to enjoy, regardless of whether they choose to consume alcohol.

Through collaborations like this, CANDLE hopes to continue supporting community initiatives while helping make alcohol-free options a welcomed and celebrated part of every occasion.

If you’re interested in learning more about prevention or how you can help support sober events, we invite you to reach out and see how you can get involved with the CANDLE Coalition.