Aqua Grill owner Cary Hart has announced that the restaurant will be continuing the relationship it established last year with the Kate Amato Foundation.
The Kate Amato Foundation is a public charity founded by the parents and friends of Kate Amato, who died in 2016 at age 11 from rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of pediatric cancer. Recently, the Foundation announced the distribution of $100,000 in research grants to three entities focused on specific aspects of childhood cancers.
“Establishing this relationship with Lisa and Jeff Amato and supporting their efforts to build the Kate Amato Foundation into something that makes a real impact on pediatric cancer research has been rewarding for all of us at the Aqua Grill, and we’re delighted to continue this effort to help grow the Foundation,” Hart said in making the announcement. “The passion Lisa and Jeff have for the cause and the success they have had in just one year have been inspirational, and we’re excited to move forward with them into the second year. I am particularly encouraged by the contributions of so many of our patrons, who have not only come to understand the enormous need for research funding for all forms of pediatric cancer, but have been moved enough by Kate Amato’s story to step up and support the Foundation.”
Throughout Thanksgiving weekend there will be a fundraising effort within the restaurant, enabling customers to participate in the effort. Additionally, the Aqua Grill will host a $250 per plate wine dinner on Sunday, Nov. 25, with all proceeds going to the Foundation.
“We have some great ideas on how to build on what we did last year, adding some great auction items to an incredible menu and wine selection for the evening,” Hart said.
Finally, the restaurant will also participate in The Kate Klassic, a fundraising golf tournament the following day, Nov. 26, at Marsh Landing Country Club.
“The tournament will have a lot of new features this year that will add to the uniqueness and enjoyment of the event,” Hart said.
The relationship with Aqua Grill has been vital to the early success of the Foundation, according to Lisa Amato.
“Jeff and I are committed to building the Foundation nationally, but nothing is more important than establishing it here in our own community, and we are so grateful to Cary Hart and the great Aqua Grill team for playing such a big role in that,” she said. “They have so much empathy for the cause, and for the belief that every child has the right to a full and happy life.”
Those seeking additional information about the dinner may contact The Kate Amato Foundation at (904) 629-8300.
