By Courtney Hughey
Staff Writer
Instead of patrolling the streets of Manhattan Beach, many police officers were at the Tin Roof Bistro serving their community in a different way on Oct. 19.
The Manhattan Beach Police Department hosted the Tip-a-Cop Fundraiser at Tin Roof Bistro, which raised money for the Special Olympics organization. The Special Olympics provides an opportunity for mentally and physically disabled athletes to participate in sport events.
“The Tin Roof Bistro always loves to get involved in the community,” Tin Roof Bistro General Manager Julian King said. “Getting to meet some athletes was amazing. We can’t wait to do it next year.”
At the fundraiser, police officers were partnered with several Tin Roof Bistro hosts and hostesses who taught them how to perform the jobs of a typical waiter, like bussing tables, serving food and drinks and seating customers.
“At first we were all a bit nervous about serving, but we soon blended right in and had a blast,” Manhattan Beach Police Officer of Public Information Stephanie Martin said.
After choosing the location site, the police department distributed flyers at local schools.
“We wanted as many people to know about the event as possible,” Martin said. “We had a really great turnout, and we had an opportunity to meet and get to know a lot of people who live in our local Manhattan Beach community.”
Each customer had the option to give a donation in the form of a tip to the Special Olympics at the end of his or her meal. The Police Department raised nearly $29,300 by the end of the night.
“The community had a unique opportunity to meet their Police Department,” Martin said.
The funds that were raised at the event will help provide uniforms and equipment, as well as various necessities for the participating athletes competing in the Special Olympics.
“The Tip-a-Cop fundraiser was more than successful; we raised the bar this year,” Martin said. “We always love supporting the Special Olympics cause.”
Leave a Reply