Looking for a quality breakfast or a fun night out with some friends at the bar? This month, United Way Northwest Indiana is partnering with the Pavlou Restaurant Corporation to raise funds for its Level Up Program, allowing Region residents to enjoy a meal while making a difference.
For the next two Tuesdays, Pavlou Restaurant Corporation will donate 10% of all proceeds at select locations to the program, helping United Way Northwest Indiana empower individuals to secure financial stability. The two giveback dates are September 19 at Maple + Bacon and September 26 at Tommy B’s Clubhouse.
“We’ve already done one giveback at Radius, and the response from our customers was good,” said Chris Pavlou, owner of Pavlou Restaurant Corporation. “I want to help a good cause however I can, and it’s not just about me giving back – I want everyone to be a part of it.”
The idea for the partnership was born from a suggestion by Sean Steele, a mutual friend of Pavlou’s, who is a community liaison for United Way Northwest Indiana.
“He came to me and gave me some information about Level Up,” Pavlou said. “I just asked how I could help.”
Level Up is one of United Way Northwest Indiana’s most ambitious and involved programs. It is designed for people who are struggling financially despite working hard, people who have hit roadblocks due to needing more training or education they don’t have the money or time to pursue. Level Up offers that training, builds other soft skills, helps clients make job connections, and provides financial and social-emotional assistance to help carve out a pathway for success.
“It helps with education, health, and building a platform for those less fortunate,” Pavlou said. “It’s just a good cause. It’s improving lives, and I want to help the community come together to support that.”
United Way Northwest Indiana’s team is already thrilled with the collaboration’s results.
“Working with Chris has been a pleasure,” Steele said. “We’ve learned more about his background and how he cares so much not only for his family and friends but his community, his staff, and the patrons of all his restaurants! He’s a genuine, down to earth, great guy.”
As a self-taught chef who started his culinary career making sandwiches in the deli of a grocery store, Pavlou knows the value of hard work. Even now – owning multiple restaurants, having won various awards, and having catered for a president – you can still see him working in the kitchen or bussing tables.
“I love what I do and appreciate all of my patrons,” he said. “I’m not just the owner; I’m an employee as well. I give back where I can and just want to find ways to help – that’s what it’s all about.”
Maple + Bacon will be open from 7 a.m to 3 p.m. on September 19, and Tommy B’s Clubhouse will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on September 26. Stop by, enjoy a meal, and make a difference.
To learn more about United Way Northwest Indiana and the Pavlou Partnership, visit https://unitedwaynwi.org/pavlou/
For more information about Chef Chris Pavlou and his restaurants, visit radiusvalpo.com.
