Award-winning local chefs gathered in Fairfield for a Taco Tuesday celebration of hope.

The Taste of Mexico event raises support for the Hands Offering Hope Culinary and Hospitality Institute.

It's a two-year program training youth who want to pursue careers at restaurants, resorts and hotels.

Funds raised from the evening of sample tacos and mixed margaritas will support young people in Mexico looking to attend the institute.

"It centers around empowering youth and helping them get a leg up and have an opportunity to get out of their environment and get educated and come back and help their communities," said Scott Lawton, CEO of bartaco.

Chefs from bartaco, Don Memo, Geronimo Bar & Grill and more local favorites contributed food and drinks to Taco Tuesday.