ALTON - The Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club will host their 40th annual Chili Chowdown to support their community projects.
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On Monday, March 2, 2026, community members can stop by Main Street United Methodist Church in Alton from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 4:30–7 p.m. for a chili meal. For $10, you can enjoy all-you-can-eat chili, a beverage and dessert with carry-out options available.
“All proceeds go to supporting the community, which is what Alton-Godfrey Rotary is all about,” said Brad King, this year’s event chair.
King explained that the Chili Chowdown originated with the late Don Johnson, proprietor of DJ's Bar and Grill, who came up with the “secret recipe” they still use today. The event encourages community members to enjoy a meal together while supporting projects like the annual Christmas tree lighting and scholarships.
The Rotary Club awards monthly Students of the Month recognitions to high schoolers in Alton, which culminates in a Student of the Year award with a scholarship. They also oversee a scholarship at Lewis and Clark Community College. It’s important to the Rotarians to support young people and their education throughout the region.
Beyond this, the Rotary Club helps with Wreaths Across America, rings bells for The Salvation Army, holds an annual veterans concert in November, and assists with Interact Club at Alton High School and Marquette Catholic High School, among other projects. Proceeds from the Chili Cowdown will allow them to continue this work.
“I just wanted to join an organization that has deep roots in the community and also had a platform that allowed me to give back to the community,” King explained, noting that the Rotary Club provides him with this opportunity.
There are a few sponsorship opportunities available for businesses or organizations that want to give back through the Chili Chowdown. For more information about sponsorships, the Chili Chowdown, or other Rotary Club projects, visit the official Alton-Godfrey Rotary Club website or their official Facebook page.
King thanked his fellow Rotarians for their support and their commitment to bettering the community. He hopes many people come out to the Chili Chowdown on March 2, 2026, to support their work and help them help others.
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