CAVA, the Mediterranean restaurant chain, is sponsoring the First Annual Golf Invitational & Wine Tasting fundraiser scheduled for April 29, 2024, at The Crossvines in Poolesville, MD. The event aims to raise funds for scholarships benefiting Montgomery County Public School students interested in pursuing careers in hospitality management. Ted Xenohristos, Founder and Chief Concept Officer of CAVA, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, 'I'm a product of Montgomery County Public Schools, so I'm especially thrilled about supporting students' enthusiasm for hospitality.' This initiative reflects CAVA's dedication to fostering educational opportunities within the community it serves.
The event will feature around twenty student volunteers from local high schools, actively participating in various aspects of the event, including setup, registration, food preparation, serving, and managing a silent auction. Lizz Durante, President of the Hospitality Services Group for PNI•HCM and FHRM Invitational Gold Sponsor, emphasized the broader impact, stating, 'The foundation gives students a better understanding of the wide-ranging opportunities available in Hospitality, Construction Trades, Automotive, and Information Technology.' This hands-on experience is crucial for students to gain practical insights into the hospitality industry, potentially shaping their future career paths.
The Golf Invitational will offer participants the chance to enjoy The Crossvines' championship golf course and world-class facilities. The highlight of the morning is the 'Putt-A-Palooza' sponsored by CAVA at 8:25 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 9 a.m. The day concludes with a reception featuring a Silent Auction, prizes, and scholarship announcements. For non-golfers, The Crossvines offers a celebration of local viticulture, with Wine Tasting & Tour tickets available. Guests can experience every stage of winemaking on the beautiful grounds, with two tour times at 10 a.m. and Noon. This dual-format event ensures broad participation, catering to both golf enthusiasts and those interested in wine culture.
The fundraiser's importance lies in its direct support for students in Montgomery County, addressing the need for skilled professionals in the hospitality sector. By providing scholarships, CAVA and its partners are investing in the next generation of industry leaders, potentially strengthening the local economy and workforce. The event also highlights the role of corporate sponsorship in education, demonstrating how businesses can contribute to community development beyond their commercial operations. The inclusion of student volunteers further enhances the educational value, offering real-world experience that complements academic learning. Overall, this initiative underscores the significance of public-private partnerships in creating sustainable opportunities for youth in specialized fields like hospitality management.
