Community Shows Support at Red Cross Jersey Coast Chapter Fundraiser

Nov. 24, 2012 - PRLog -- Atlantic Highlands, NJ: On Sunday, November 18th, The Wine Bar and Chris Ruisi, Author of "Step Up and Play Big", co-sponsored a fundraising gathering for the American Red Cross Jersey Coast Chapter to help disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. This event helped to raise funds and to collect much needed supplies for area coastal residents.

People from all over Monmouth County were treated to complementary artisanal cheese and fruit platters, sipped "Rescue-tinis" as a themed cocktail to put a smile on guests' faces (reminicsent of pre-Sandy normalcy) and enjoyed live music by local musician Quincy Mumford who donated his performance.

Bestselling Leadership Author Chris Ruisi literally 'stepped up and played big' by generously donating $2500 to help in the recovery efforts. He also donated 100% of all of his book sales to the Red Cross. Following Chris' lead was an unexpected donor, Peter Liska of Rumson, who made a donation to the American Red Cross Jersey Coast Chapter of $5000. The Wine Bar donated food, staff and their venue plus 10% of all food and beverage sales back to the organization. Hamilton Jewelers, Brooks Brothers, Poor Cat Designs, The Wine Bar and Photographer Andrei Jackamets donated Silent Auction items to further assist in fundraising efforts. With matching event funds from other companies including New Jersey Natural Gas Co., over $20,000 was raised. Belfer Communications proudly produced the gathering.
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Guests were asked to bring supplies of food, clothing, toiletries and other necessities, which quickly filled up every corner of The Wine Bar. The donations of supplies were brought to area distribution centers around Coastal Monmouth County. Debi Heptig, Major Gift Officer for the Red Cross Jersey Coast Chapter, shared many heartfelt stories about the community and how we will all survive during this difficult time. More donations are being accepted at the American Red Cross Jersey Coast Chapter and volunteers are welcome to help in response to the growing needs of Sandy victims. Call 732.493.0100 for more information.

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization led by volunteers, guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement, will provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. The Jersey Coast Chapter serves both Monmouth and Ocean counties, which is 84 municipalities and approximately 1.1 million people.
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The Wine Bar, located at 40 First Avenue in Atlantic Highlands, is a full service bar/lounge that also offers unique and classic cocktails, seasonally inspired tapas, global cuisine and live cabaret music. They are open Thursday through Saturday 6 p.m. until closing. Private parties are available Monday through Saturday.

Chris Ruisi has brought his business knowledge to the offices of entrepreneurs, business leaders and other professionals "teaching" them how to play to their full potential for many years. Now he's bringing it to you at a time when we all need to help after Hurricane Sandy. "Step Up and Play Big: Unlock Your Potential to be Exceptional in 8 Simple Steps" translates the skills taught through his executive coaching practice to professionals of all levels. What does it mean to Step Up and Play Big? It means that you have decided to take action; you are willing to accept the risks associated, and you are ready to work toward your goal and you are prepared to roll up your sleeves.

For interviews and other media inquiries, please contact Susan Belfer
at sbelfer@belfercom.com or George P. Turner at gturner@belfercom.com