CELEBRITY WAITRESSES' AND WAITERS' NIGHT Leave the kitchen behind to support kids in need.
by Whitney Riggs

Since 1986, the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery has offered children who are abused, neglected or living in a stressful environment a chance to escape. With more than 1,500 children killed each year in the United States due to child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery works to prevent and educate the community on these issues. Not only does it offer a safe place for children free of cost 24 hours a day, but it also provides immediate crisis counseling, medical examinations by physicians and developmental programs including the Parent Empowerment Groups.

"Hopefully, we create more stability in their home over time," says Bonnie Define, community relations director of the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery.

Help benefit these innocent children at the 19th annual Celebrity Waitresses' and Waiters' Night 5-10 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Canyon Cafe & Cardwell's Plaza Frontenac. Make a reservation at either restaurant and enjoy dinner at regular menu prices. More than 80 local sports, media and business personalities will serve guests while vying for big tips.

Specialty drinks, an Elvis impersonator, entertainment by the Grand Center dancers and UNBEATABLE, and a raffle will also comprise the event.

"We're hoping that people will really step up," Define says. “We need to raise a lot of money."

The event is free to attend, but Crisis Nursery earns all tips left behind to continue helping children and families in need. Last year, the event raised $90,000, and the organization hopes to raise at least $85,000 this year.

"We want people to have a really good time," says Janet Conners, president-elect of the board of directors. "In the process, they're learning about Crisis Nursery."

Call (314) 292-5770 or log on www.crisisnurserykids.com.