Restaurant Neighbor Award 2008 Finalist
Illinois

Nick's Pizza & Pub
Crystal Lake, IL

Even small companies can make a big difference when it comes to giving back. Nick’s Pizza & Pub is a great example, donating 5 percent of its annual net profits to nonprofit organizations. Last year the company donated $62,000 to nonprofits, including The Cary Children’s Center for Autism. In 2008, Nick’s Pizza & Pub hosted its fifth annual fundraiser for the center, helping to raise more than $32,000. Nick’s works hard to publicize the event, sending customers e-mails and fliers; securing media coverage; and asking staff to promote the event to guests. This year’s event included a pizza-making contest for team members from the restaurants’ two locations. Over the past four years, Nick’s has helped raise more than $194,000 for The Cary Children’s Center for Autism.

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