Don't miss out on Share Our Strength's Second Annual Great American Dine Out, returning September 20 — 26, 2009 in cities across the U.S. The Great American Dine Out provides the restaurant industry with a viable tool to help end childhood hunger in America even during this difficult economic time. In fact, with 12.4 million children at risk of hunger in America, consumers are combining their decision to dine out with their decision to support a worthy cause.
So far Il Fornaio, Dave & Busters, Corner Bakery Café, McAlister's Deli, Angelina's Tapas and Martini Lounge, Hawks and many, many more have registered for the 2009 Great American Dine Out. This year, there are more flexible ways to get involved that are designed to help your business, too. You can choose what works best for your restaurant or your organization and still make a difference.
Here are a few ideas:
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Create a new seasonal menu item and donate the proceeds (see if you can come up with a healthy one that promotes nutrition).
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Design an Autumn Harvest tasting menu or prix fix menu, promote it locally and donate the proceeds.
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Turn your customers into “regulars.” Localize the Apple Bounceback Coupon we've supplied on our Restaurant Resource Center with a special offer and sell it to customers (a free dessert or a discounted meal are great ways to get people back in the door!)
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Invite your guests to make donations online at GreatAmericanDineOut.org.
P.S. Some restaurants have already come up with clever in-house promotions and new menu items to promote themselves and the Great American Dine Out. Can you print a T-shirt? Create interesting dishes for your patrons? Print your restaurant logo on a coupon to encourage repeat business? Then you are ready to participate.
