The first ever Chocolate "Ball" was in 2001. We had an opportunity to support the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and we gladly accepted. We knew immediately that great chocolate for a great cause was a recipe for success. That night, we promoted their organization, introduced Jer's Handmade Chocolates, and of course, raised money: 100% of the proceeds went to benefit the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

By the end of the evening, we knew the First ever chocolate party would soon be the First Annual Chocolate Ball.

The company's Annual Chocolate Ball now attracts more than 500 attendees for an evening of music, fun and everything chocolate with proceeds benefiting a select non-profit organization each year. Through the Annual Chocolate Ball, Jer's Handmade Chocolates has raised tens of thousands of dollars for organizations like The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, The Boys & Girls Club and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

When we first started the Chocolate Ball, a chocolate-based beer station, several dessert dipping fountains, and an incredible chocolate martini bar had not been done or seen before. Now, chocolates parties seem to be happening across the country more regularly. And that's one sweet trend we're happy to have set.