The 50th birthday party Feb. 1 was the fourth time in four years that Sherman Leibow has used his birthday to raise money for charity.

The first year, the party benefited Epilepsy Idaho. For the past three, he has raised money for Life's Kitchen, which provides job and life-skills training and placements in the food-service industry to at-risk youths. Life's Kitchen catered the party, exposing partygoers to its students and their work.

"The organization struck a nerve for me," says Leibow, a self-described foodie who joined the nonprofit's board after his 2011 party. "It's a worthwhile and innovative way to help people."

Leibow and his wife, Anne, own Great Western Distribution of Idaho, which markets and distributes barbecue grills and other household products.

He plans a similar party next year. "It is getting to be a large event," he says.

David Staats: 377-6417