Fifteen Popular SoNo Restaurants Give Back to the Community and Help Raise Money for a Local Non-Profit

When we think of restaurants we think of businesses that are “for profit” and in the business of making money! However, here in Norwalk there are 15 restaurants that are promoting philanthropy! They are giving their space, time and phenomenal cuisine, all to support the Human Services Council’s 5th Annual SoNo Stroll Benefit. This unique fundraising event is slated for Wednesday, June 5th in historic South Norwalk. The festivities get underway at 5:30pm with a cocktail reception and live/silent auctions at the illustrious Black Bear Saloon SoNo. Following the reception, guests will dine at one of several participating SoNo restaurants, enjoying a 3-course meal selected from a signature menu. This year’s civic-minded restaurants include repeat supporters Bacchus, Barcelona Restaurant and Wine Bar, Black Bear Saloon SoNo, The Brewhouse, Burger Bar & Bistro, Coromandel - Indian Bistro, Donovan's, The Ginger Man, Match, O'Neill's Pub and Restaurant, Pasta Nostra, and Strada 18; as well as newcomers Harbor Lights, Nola Oyster Bar, and The Spread. When asked why they participate in this annual event Megan Cody, Sales and Events Manager at Black Bear Saloon SoNo, states “Black Bear is really community minded and for this night we love to help raise tons of money and be a part of the organization.” Year after year they have demonstrated that they care about improving their community by graciously hosting the cocktail reception and live/silent auctions that commence the Stroll. Many of these restaurants have been around since the inception of the Stroll back in 2009 and the fabulous dishes they serve help make the event a huge success. To this end, Marissa Lilliedahl Mangone, Director of Development at the Human Services Council says frankly “without these restaurants, there would be no Stroll; we are forever grateful for their support and commitment. To date the Stroll has grossed over $378,000 to support the programs of the Human Services Council and these restaurants have been instrumental in making this event so successful.” For almost seven decades, the Human Services Council has identified unmet community needs and has filled the gaps by creating and fostering programs that educate, safeguard and empower the people of our communities. Collaborating with other local agencies, the Human Services Council serves over 8,000 children, families, and individuals each year. To learn more about the Human Services Council, the 5th Annual SoNo Stroll and how you can help please visit www.hscct.org, e-mail Marissa Lilliedahl Mangone at mmangone@hscct.org, or call (203) 849-1111; x3023 for additional information.