‘Shaken, Stirred and Served’ fundraiser to benefit LARC
Celebrity bartenders & servers to include Councilmember Nelson-Lastra, Mayor Gunter
A nonprofit is hosting an event next week where patrons can see drinks mixed and have tables catered to by “local celebrity” bartenders and servers.
Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens will host its first-ever “Shaken, Stirred & Served” fundraiser at Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery in Cape Coral on April 27.
Since 1954, LARC is dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Local celebrity bartenders and servers will step behind the bar and hit the floor, competing to see who can raise the most tips in support of LARC’s mission with 100% of all tips go directly to the nonprofit.
“We are thrilled to host the inaugural Shaken, Stirred and Served event at Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery,” said Angela Katz, LARC’s executive director, in a prepared statement. “It’s going to be a fun, high-energy evening — and it all supports a powerful cause. Our celebrity guests are ready to compete, and we hope the community will come out to tip big and make a meaningful impact. Supporters can also donate in advance toward the celebrity’s tip jar.”
The event will run from 4 to 7 p.m., where attendees are encouraged to bring friends, a thirst, and generosity.
“Every dollar tipped makes a difference,” event organizers stated.
Celebrity bartenders include:
• Noelle Casagrande – public information officer, city of Fort Myers
• Marc Collins – executive director, Uncommon Friends Foundation
• Jennifer Nelson-Lastra – councilmember, city of Cape Coral
Celebrity servers will be:
• Kevin Anderson – mayor, city of Fort Myers
• John Gunter – mayor, city of Cape Coral
• Sadie – from the Logan and Sadie Morning Show on 96.9 WINK FM
Nelson-Lastra said she wanted to take part in the event for two reasons.
“First, the mission of LARC speaks to my soul as I spent the bulk of my career with Goodwill Industries helping people with disabilities,” she said. “I believe in the work they do that makes a big difference in adults living with disabilities.
“Second, It’s in our city, and at my favorite spot in Cape Coral. Mike Gavala who is one of the owners, reached out and asked if I would help raise money and I of course said yes.”
Nelson-Lastra, who said she’s without bartending experience, said it’s going to be a day full of smiles for a good cause.
“I’m looking forward to serving with some of my favorite community leaders from across the bridge and providing awareness about LARC to our residents who may want to join in the fun,” Nelson-Lastra said.
“I’ve never been a bartender, so I have zero previous experience. I’m going to rely on my friendly customer service skills to raise the most tips for LARC. It will be a bonus if we raise more money than both mayors.”
Gunter could not be reached for comment.
LARC has impacted the Lee County community for more than seven decades, offering life skills and vocational training, residential services, and a wide range of programs that promote inclusion and personal growth. Each year, more than 300 individuals, ranging from 14 to 83 years old, benefit from LARC’s life-changing services. LARC’s main campus is at 2570 Hanson St. in Fort Myers.
Sponsorship opportunities for Shaken, Stirred & Served are available and feature premium access to a private VIP area, reserved tables for four, and dedicated barstool seating. The sponsorship deadline is April 25 at noon.
For more information or to purchase sponsorships, visit larcleecounty.orgg, or contact Nickole Hendra at 239-334-6285 (extension 229), or email nickolehendra@larcleecounty.org.
Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery is at 927 Cape Coral Parkway East.