Why is it important to give back? You’re an individual or own a business, doing well and happy with life. So, why should you do more?
Patrick Wilkins and his staff at Patrick’s Grille in Michigan City can explain.
People want a good education, fun things to do, and jobs, he said, when looking for a place to move to and live.
“If I can do something to help the community and others outside of Michigan City to say, ‘Yeah, we have those things,’ then that’s great,” he said. “I would love to see Michigan City be a star again and to be known positively all over for all the great things we have here in La Porte County.”
Born and raised in the county, parented three children here, and owns several businesses here, Wilkins, the owner of the fine-dining restaurant, takes pride in his community.
He knows it is a formula of organizations, restaurants, shops, and amenities like parks and Lake Michigan that draws people to the area, so when it comes to showing the rest of the world the values and features Michigan City has to offer, it starts with hometown help.
Patrick’s Grille has been partnering with local organizations and groups for Giveback Nights, where proceeds and donations are collected and then given to those places.
These nights include lots of food and lots of talking, making it more than just a way to raise money, he said. It is a way to get out into the community and meet new people.
“We are hoping more people from the organizations come out to talk to the customers, which happened at the last event,” Wilkins said. “People stayed and hung out all night long, learning about the organization. It is a great way to network with and meet new people.”
The restaurant already hosted one Giveback night and silent auction for Stepping Stone Shelter for Women on April 13. The Giveback night usually lasts all day and the staff give 10 percent of the entire day’s proceeds to the organization, but this may vary by event.
Patrick’s Grille also supported the Michigan City Pop Warner Cheer and Dance team with a Giveback Night and set aside a spot in the building for a Toys For Tots collection box. And, the restaurant has been the lunch meeting location for the League of Women Voters of La Porte County.
The next Giveback night will take place tonight, May 17 to raise money for the La Porte County YMCA Scholarship Fund.
Keep your eyes out for these next events held at the restaurant at 4125 S. Franklin St., Michigan City: Cocktails for Relay for Life of La Porte county on May 31, a Giveback night for Save the Dunes on June 20, and another Giveback event for the organization, Deserving Children in July!
