Jul 1, 2026
We hope you are enjoying the Dog Days of Summer and celebrating all that life has to offer.
For the month of June, Monarch Awards Foundation supported by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Xi Nu Omega Chapter held its 4th Annual “Elements of Taste” Food Truck Festival on Saturday, June 6, at Christ Universal Temple, 11901 S. Ashland, Chicago. This free family-friendly event featured fourteen Food Truck vendors, various community resources, classic car clubs, and other merchants to celebrate entrepreneurship, culture, and community support with over 750 attendees visiting the festival.
Our “Elements of Taste” Food Truck Festival highlighted one of the greatest investments we can make in our communities, supporting family-owned businesses that create opportunities, build generational wealth, and strengthen local neighborhoods. We were honored to welcome vendors like Bishop's Barbeque, a family-operated business whose passion, hard work, and commitment to excellence were on full display.
Businesses like theirs represent more than great food; they represent entrepreneurship, job creation, legacy, and the power of keeping dollars circulating within our communities. Every purchase made at a local Black-owned business helps fuel dreams, support families, and inspire the next generation of business owners.
Additionally, our Next Level Not-for-Profit Organization Pitch Competition Winner, Elevation of Excellence, was presented a $1,000 check to further their mission to provide scholars of color with career seminars, financial aid workshops, scholarship
application support as well as elevating awareness and exploring post-secondary educational opportunities at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the country.
Thank you to all partners, vendors, and attendees! Black businesses are thriving because of you. Special thanks to Christ Universal Temple, Power92, Metro by T-Mobile, V103's Jean Sparrow Show, Chicago's Mayor Office of Community Safety, and Matthew Eaglin-Daniels Photography.
As we embrace the warmth and excitement of summer, we encourage everyone to be intentional about where they spend their dollars. Visit a local food truck, shop at neighborhood markets, dine at Black-owned restaurants, and share your favorite businesses with family and friends. Together, we can enjoy the sunshine while making a meaningful investment in the economic strength of our communities.
