Advance Donates $10,000 to “Famous Fund” to Help Baltimore Restaurants Affected by COVID-19
Advance Business Systems challenged its employees, partners and social media followers to donate to a fund established to help Baltimore restaurants in need of immediate financial help during this time.
In an effort to support these Baltimore businesses, Jeff Elkin, President of Advance, issued a challenge in a video that was promoted on social media that for every $50 or more made in donations, Advance would donate $100 up to $10,000 for a one–week timeframe in January.
On Friday, January 29th, Elkin took to social media in another video to announce that Advance’s goal had been achieved which resulted in more than $15,000 in donations being raised for the cause! To date, the fund has raised over $382,271 and is still accepting donations.
The “Famous Fund” was organized by John Minadakis, owner of Jimmy’s Famous Seafood, (who was inspired by Dave Portnoy & The Barstool Fund) to help Baltimore bars and restaurants in need of immediate financial relief including Sliders Bar & Grille, The Chasseur, G & A Restaurant, The Angle Inn, Shotti’s Point Charm City and many more. These establishments and many more were not able to open their doors during Christmas, New Year’s, the Ravens playoff run and many more events that traditionally generate much needed revenue. Over 20,000 employees have lost their source of income and experts predict that the ban may cause the permanent closure of 40%-70% of establishments. Restaurants may apply for money from the fund here.
Giving Back
Since its inception in 1964, Advance has always made it a priority to give back to the local community for which it serves. In 2019, Advance launched its community service initiative dubbed “We Live And Believe This Stuff” which gives Advance team members paid time off for organized group community service projects. Advance supports many of its local nonprofit partners throughout the year through the deployment of volunteers as well as resources.
About Advance
Advance is an iconic Baltimore-based business serving the Maryland business community for over 56 years. They attribute their longevity to delivering exceptional service to customers as well as their commitment to the growth and development of their employees. Advance’s mission: “We are a people company with an intense passion for improving our customers’ businesses and enhancing our team members’ lives,” is the guiding principle behind their every action. Advance partners with Maryland businesses to identify areas within their organizations that would benefit from more effective technology and processes to help increase efficiencies while maintaining the security of their data and the safety of their employees. Advance provides Hardware, Managed IT, Managed Print, Document Management and Software Enhancement services.
