1808 American Bistro is more than just a fixture for food and drinks in historic downtown Delaware, OH, it’s become major player in philanthropy and all things human.
Since opening its doors in 2008, the Bistro has combined its brand promise of fresh, innovative and unique dining with community consciousness, making it a culinary stand out.
A year after its opening, the Bistro partnered with HelpLine to host the Autumn Jazz and Silent Auction event in 2009 and 2010. This signature fundraiser not only raised the organizations profile but quickly established the reputation of “the Bistro with big heart” among local nonprofit originations.
Most recently, the Bistro quickly moved into action to memorialize Anthony Bourdain, whose tragic death by suicide hit close to home for the restaurant which came on the heels of the suicide of fashion icon Kate Spade. Known for his eclectic palette showcased for the past 11 seasons on the show “Parts Unknown” on CNN, the Bistro wanted to shine a light on the darkness that loss by suicide creates.
“We are deeply saddened with all of the deaths of influential people this week in the news, “said Kelsey Ice, front of house manager. “The recent suicide of Anthony Bourdain, who was extremely influential in our line of work, touched us greatly and we would like to give back to the community in his honor.”
Within days, the Bistro sponsored a quick-turn fundraiser to heighten awareness about local suicide prevention resources while donating 10% their total sales on Tuesday, June 12 to HelpLine. Dozens of locals dined in to support this effort raising nearly $750.
“We love helping HelpLine every chance we get, because we so appreciate what you do in our community,” said Josh Dalton, owner of 1808 American Bistro. “This was a wonderful opportunity to bring to light a very real struggle in our world, and we were more than happy to do it. Connecting conversations can be just as meaningful, if not more, than money, yet we still know that you will use our donation to help so many in our community — and that is something we 110% support!
HelpLine Associate Director Tiana Purvis believes that the Bistro is a beacon of light within our community because they get that prevention is possible and often starts with awareness.
“Our hotline specialist responded to over 14,500 calls related to depression, suicide, sexual assault and substance abuse over the last year,” said Purvis. “Many times, our callers want to know that there is someone there to listen and they are not alone. The continued support of the Bistro through these efforts and others such as Pint Night allows us to provide critical, life-saving services when it matters most.”
Cheers to 1808 for its generosity, ongoing support and love of humanity that allows us to transform lives, one phone call at a time.
To learn more, visit the 1808 American Bistro website here.
