Durty Nellie's debuts new community focus with guest bartenders
Durty Nellie's is staying true to its deep community ties through a new program designed to promote and support nonprofits. Guest bartenders from area charitable and social service organizations are now being invited on a monthly basis to cast a spotlight on their service to the community, and to raise funds.
The Durty Nellie's Guest Bartender for August will be Stephen "Steve" Katz, a 30-year Special Olympian and Arlington Heights resident who has earned more than 250 medals - and is an active ambassador for the organization.
Katz, a Palatine High School graduate, will guest bartend from 7-9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 30. Area residents are invited to come out and meet Steve, who will be greeting patrons with his outgoing and engaging personality - while Durty Nellie's bartenders do the heavy lifting behind the bar. A portion of the proceeds from all sales during the two-hour period will be donated to Special Olympics of Illinois.
"Volunteering and supporting local organizations is very important to me and my family. In addition to volunteering for Special Olympics, I am also active with the Northwest Suburban Recreation Association and the Special Leisure Services Foundation and run the Dessert Table at Arlington Heights Frontier Fest each year with my parents to raise funds," Katz said.
The event will also include samples of Durty Nellie's new and expanded menu, along with raffle prizes.
The genesis of this new program happened organically. Earlier this summer, Second City Canine Rescue (SCCR) had their president, Dr. Jacquie Cobb, as a guest bartender to raise money for her nonprofit. SCCR will also be hosting an adoption fundraiser at Durty Nellie's at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 2. Kari-Ann Ryan from the Team of Lost Souls - which supports the Alzheimer's Association - was also a guest bartender and many supporters came out to learn about the association, while making connections and raising funds.
"We had a great experience supporting Second City Canine Rescue and Team of Lost Souls and we've decided to continue engaging with more nonprofits. Over our 50-year history, Durty Nellie's has always been a community gathering spot and we're thrilled to be starting this initiative," said Jimmy Dolezal, Durty Nellie's co-owner. "We're fortunate to be able to increase awareness of the organizations that are serving our community."
Representatives from area nonprofits are encouraged to reach out to get involved and sign up to be future guest bartenders. For more information, email engage@vicariousmm.com.