Baton Rouge community members dined with pizazz last night at the sixth annual Celebrity Waiter Event hosted by Baton Rouge Children’s Advocacy Center at Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar.
Residents of the Red Stick were waited on by some local celebrities, all for a charitable cause.
There were about 30 such celebrities in attendance, and the prominent wait staff consisted of artists, law enforcement, political figures, media personalities, the LSU Golden Girls, former and current athletic coaches and team members from LSU and Southern University.
The event featured both silent and live auctions, an open bar, giveaways and a prize wheel.
Restaurant patrons got to relax and enjoy an evening out while the who’s who of Baton Rouge requested their drink orders in exchange for tips. The celebrity waiter who raked in the most cash was named the champion.
All the proceeds of the night are being donated to BRCAC. Roberta Vicari, BRCAC board president, shared a little about the organization and how the event helps children and families.
“This is one of the most fun parties for one of the best causes,” Vicari said. “And you see such a crossroads of people, from the law enforcement to the mayor’s office to sheriffs and deputies. We have the best group of civil leaders right now.”
Vicari said the event has grown tremendously throughout the years. The first year fundraiser collected about $25,000 in proceeds. The previous year BRCAC raised more than $60,000 for its cause.
“This year our goal is to hit the $50,000 mark again,” she said. “Which I believe we will accomplish.”
With more money flowing in, BRCAC has been able to better care for child victims of abuse and trauma.
“We’ve been able to go from renting a place to owning it, to making more like a real home,” Vicari explained. “We’ve also invested in the right kind of equipment and are providing counselors to victims and their families whether they can pay or not.”
BRCAC also presents prevention talks and puppet shows for children with help from fund-raisers such as Celebrity Waiter Event and grants from various sponsors.
“In hard times like these when you get that kind of money, I think it’s kind of a sign you’re doing the right thing.” Vicari said. “I think what we’re doing, people resonate with it.”
The feeling did resonate, as evidenced by the packed-house of hungry guests, the “waiters” reeling in the tips and the auction bid’s escalation.
 
____ Contact Taylor Schoen at [email protected]