WEST MICHIGAN TACO BELL HOSTS 3RD COAT DRIVE FOR LOCAL BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS Bring in a new or gently- used coat to participating West Michigan Taco Bell restaurants and receive a FREE Combo Meal! November 3, 2011
Grand Rapids, MI: For the third straight year, the local Taco Bell owners in Western Michigan will be collecting coats in almost 50 local Taco Bell restaurants to be donated to local Boys & Girls Clubs starting Monday, November 7th and lasting through Wednesday, November 16th. West Michigan Taco Bell has committed to redeem one free combo meal per customer per visit if they donate a coat on that visit for the cause.
This is the third year that Grand Rapids - Kalamazoo Taco Bell restaurant owners Tony Basile and Rodney Walker have hosted the coat drive for the local Boys & Girls Clubs (including Holland, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Battle Creek). The response from local West Michigan customers last year was tremendous, and they’re hoping for an even stronger response this time.
Since 2006, West Michigan Taco Bell restaurants have collected and donated over $240,000 to local Boys & Girls Clubs, and the partnership has grown more and more every year. This is part of a long time relationship between Taco Bell and the BGCA, as well as between franchisee Tony Basile and the Boys & Girls Club Organization. Basile, owner of Chicago Diversified Foods and 45 West Michigan area Taco Bell restaurants accredits a Boys & Girls Club (at that time, the Boys Club) at the Jane Addams Homes in Chicago for keeping him out of trouble as a young boy. Ever since, he has dedicated himself, his resources and his energy to benefit local clubs when possible. Basile was a significant contributor in starting the first Boys & Girls Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan and stays engaged in Club Youth of the Year contests and Club benefit dinners. Before Basile’s involvement, Grand Rapids had been the largest city in the United States without a Boys & Girls Club.
“The Taco Bell Coat drive is another example of how Taco Bell gives back to our community. We are grateful for their on-going partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth. Through the community’s generosity, Taco Bell’s advocacy and partnership with the Clubs, together we help kids learn, grow and have fun – not worry about basic needs like warmth and adequate clothing. Please visit your participating Taco Bell and help provide this much needed winter clothing,” Dave Emenheiser, Interim Executive Director.
To locate a West Michigan area Taco Bell, visit www.WestMichiganTacoBell.com and bring in a new or gently used coat for local youth this Holiday season through November 16th. It is going to be a chilly winter in West Michigan this year and after all, being warm is always fashionable.
Let’s give thanks: Taco Bell gives back October 31, 2011
DES MOINES, Iowa – October 31, 2011 – Taco Bell restaurants in Des Moines, Fort Dodge, Knoxville and Marshalltown donated over $2,500 to the Food Bank of Iowa to show their support for Hunger Action Month. On Wednesday, September 28, the restaurants donated 15 percent of sales to help raise awareness around the issue of hunger in Iowa.
“For the third straight year, Des Moines- area Taco Bell restaurants are proud to show their support to the Food Bank of Iowa and helping to feed the hungry in our own backyards,” said Barb Lucas, franchisee and operator of the participating Taco Bell stores. “We were truly honored to welcome the public into our restaurants on September 28 for such an important cause. Taco Bell looks forward to providing the necessary exposure to the Food Bank of Iowa and donating funds to an active, local organization that makes a difference for Iowans every day.”
Hunger Action Month is a nationwide call-to-action effort between Feeding America and local food banks to mobilize people everywhere to get involved with ending hunger in America.
“I truly appreciate Taco Bell’s continued support for the Food Bank of Iowa, and their efforts to help raise awareness about Hunger Action Month,” says Carey Miller, executive director of the Food Bank of Iowa. “As the demand for food assistance continues to increase, these funds will help us provide essential food resources to support Iowans in need.”
In FYE 6/30/11, the Food Bank of Iowa distributed 6,912,629 pounds of donated food and grocery products last year to 285 partner agencies in 42 Iowa counties out of their distribution facility in Des Moines. These agencies include food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shelters and shelters for victims of domestic violence, nonprofit day care and residential care centers, as well as child and
senior programs.
Taco Bell hosts Boys & Girls Clubs of Green Bay and Fox Valley for a night at the Timber Rattlers Time Warner Cable Field July 2011
June 29, 2011 – Green Bay Taco Bell Advertising Association will host hundreds of kids and family members from local Boys & Girls Clubs for Taco Bell Night at Time Warner Cable Field when the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers take on the Kane County Cougars at 12:05 PM, Thursday, July 7, 2011. Taco Bell will also provide t-shirts and an in-game offer.
This is the third annual Taco Bell Day at Time Warner Cable Field where Green Bay area Taco Bell has taken its own initiative to make local contributions to the local Boys & Girls Clubs. Nationally, Taco Bell and Boys & Girls Clubs of America have had a long-standing relationship contributing to the educational and emotional enrichment of kids all over the nation.
Rich Lepping, a key operator for Green Bay Taco Bell said, “We’re thrilled to continue creating opportunities in our stores and for our customers to engage with this important organization. Boys & Girls Clubs are well-known for their after school programming and their services are vital for the success of our youth in Green Bay.”
According to John Benberg, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay, the Taco Bell relationship is a win-win proposition. “Taco Bell understands the importance of investing in young people—they are customers and some could be employees or even franchise owners in the future—so helping kids is also good business.”
The Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay (BGCGB) believes every child deserves to be in an environment that brings out the best in them, offering over 100 programs a year that develop and promote healthy lifestyles, academic success, and character & leadership. For more information on the BGCGB visit www.bgcgb.org.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley operates seven full-service sites and serves over 14,000 children and youth annually. With a newly renovated and expanded headquarters at 160 South Badger Avenue near downtown Appleton, the organization provides a diverse array of youth development programs and activities as well as a number of intervention and counseling services through its unique Youth Resource Center.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley emphasizes positive values in the relationships members have with each other. According to Greg Lemke-Rochon, Chief Professional Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley, “Forward thinking companies like Taco Bell understand the critical role Clubs can play in securing a brighter future for us all and we’re so grateful for all they’ve done over these many years and continue to do. Taco Bell’s support helps us give young people, especially those who need us most, hope and opportunity. Our kids are really looking forward to this event!”
A new Taco Bell will rise from the rubble on
West Main Street in Kalamazoo July 2011
The Taco Bell restaurant in the West Century Center at Drake Road and West Main Street was demolished early this week to make way for a new Taco Bell facility which is set to open Sept. 5.
The fast-food eatery that was on the southwest corner of that busy intersection for nearly 20 years, was closed on Sunday and torn down on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Mariane Inc., of Houghton Lake, was the franchisee of that Taco Bell. An affiliated company, Bells and Birds Inc., will be the franchisee of the new facility.
"We had come to the end of our 20-year franchise and wanted to update the facility to the now-current Taco Bell image including all the enhancements in equipment and facilities to better serve our customers," said Rodney Walker, owner of the new franchise.
Walker said a new 3,455-square-foot Taco Bell is set to open on Sept. 5 and will have improved patio seating for up to 15 people and televisions in the interior dining area. He declined to disclose the project's cost.
He said the old Taco Bell employed about 60 people and the new facility will employ about the same number.
Bells and Birds will lease the building from PlazaCorp Realty Advisors Inc., the Kalamazoo-based real estate development and leasing firm that manages West Century Center. According to PlazaCorp, the redeveloped structure will have "a fresh new look that is more consistent with Taco Bell's national design standards." It will also have more effective drive-thru access, a current facade, a larger building that offers better overall accessibility to handicapped patrons, and newer equipment for food preparation.
RCW General Contractors Inc., of Williamston, is the project's general contractor. It is expected to complete construction by Sept. 2. Mariane Inc. also owned the Taco Bell in the Bronco Mall in the Bernhard Center at Western Michigan University. Walker said that eatery closed in late April when its lease expired.
Walker said new manager trainees will be hired by mid-July. Those who want to apply for a job there should visit www.tbelljobs.com or call (877)tbelljobs.
The 5013 W. Main St. Taco Bell opened when the West Century Center was built in 1991. The center's business tenants include McGinnis Landing, Hunan Gardens and Blockbuster among others. There are six other Taco Bell restaurants, with other owners, in the Kalamazoo/Portage area.
The 2nd Annual 11 Holes Challenge at Sunnybrook Country Club in Grandville, MI will be on Monday, July, 18th. Come help be a part of this unique fundraiser for Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth, and get access to a day full of golf and prizes, with 48 competitors trying to pass the 100 hole mark!
Just for participating, you will receive FREE:
breakfast, lunch, and reception
embroidered polo
golf tees
on-site chair massages
special thank you gift
additional prizes and awards
Click on the following link for more information: http://100holesgr.com/
97.5 NOW FM in Lansing welcomed American Idol final four contestant Kimberly Caldwell to the Taco Bell in East Lansing for the first ever Terrific Ticket concert. Lucky customers had the chance to get an autograph from Kimberly and enjoy live music while eating delicious Taco Bell food.
Chicago Taco Bell, 103.5 KISS FM and The Salvation Army teamed up to Stuff-A-Bus in the 2010 holiday season. Listeners were encouraged to fill a CTA bus with toys, blankets, coats, clothing and canned goods from December 10th-15th! Chicago Taco Bell Owners and Operators donated over $4,500 this year to aid the Salvation Army in their efforts to help the less fortunate in the greater Chicagoland community.
Chicago Taco Bell Rang in the New Year with Q101 at the Navy Pier Ballroom in Chicago, IL. Taco Bell and Q101 offered a $1,000 prize as part of Ring n’ Ride a promotion at the event. Kyle E. of Wilmington, IL was the lucky winner. Kyle, a current Marine used his winnings towards two of the hottest tickets in town, 2 Bears/Packers tickets at Soldier Field.
Pic attached (Left to right) Kyle's friend, Tingle, Kyle & Sherman
celebrating after he won on NYE!
Local Taco Bell Franchisee brings home over $60,000 for Humane Societies January 2011
Despite the tough economic times, Mid-Westerners have opened their wallets to 14 Humane Societies throughout Michigan.
Sponsored by Old West Properties, a Michigan based Taco Bell franchise organization with 105 stores throughout Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Ohio, the first year of a new fund-raising program to benefit local animal shelters was a huge success, raising over $60,000 in 2010.
Humane Society collection canisters were placed in all of Old West Properties' Michigan stores. At the end of 2010, the organization matched the donations of their generous customers.
A canister was placed in the respective Michigan Taco Bell restaurants to collect donations. In addition, a poster was placed in each store, calling attention to the initiative and asking Taco Bell customers to make a donation.
"Helping to take care of neglected animals is something that makes the entire community feel good, especially in bad times, said Pete Lyders, owner of Old West Properties. "We're happy to be able to give something back in this way."
There are currently 14 Humane Societies participating in this fundraiser, with funding supported by the efforts of 53 Taco Bell restaurants. Shelters are not supported by counties or other government agencies. Instead, they rely on donations, small fees for services, and volunteers.
"Taco Bell has proven that 'thinking outside the bun' pays off in more ways than one," said Michael Robbins, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Michigan Humane Society. "As a result of our in-restaurant donations and the extremely generous matching donation by Mr. Lyders' organization, the local Taco Bell restaurants have helped the Michigan Humane Society make a tremendous impact on the lives of many neglected or homeless animals in need.
The Michigan Taco Bell donation program helped fund critical Humane Society programs, such as animal cruelty investigation, emergency rescue, adoption, humane education and much more.
"Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets and a host of other animals of all shapes and sizes are living much happier lives today because of Taco Bell's commitment to animal welfare," Robbins added.
The program will continue for its second year at all of Old West Properties participating Michigan stores.
DETROIT TACO BELL FRANCHISEE RAISES FUNDS FOR MICHIGAN HUMANE SOCIETY'S 5TH ANNUAL MEGA MARCH FOR ANIMALS
Detroit, MI., October 13, 2010 - As a Flagship Sponsor for the 5th annual Mega March for Animals, Taco Bell franchisee Pete Lyders and his local Taco Bell restaurants, raised over $6,900 to help transform the lives of more than 2,500 animals. Funds were raised via online and viral solicitations, as well as the ongoing in-store canister program. This program was initiated in February, when the first of 22 canisters was placed in one of Lyders' restaurants. The canisters collect spare change that customers generously donate to assist animals in need.
"We are both excited and grateful with regards to our new partnership with Pete Lyders and his Taco Bell restaurants," said Cal Morgan, President and CEO of the Michigan Humane Society. "In a relatively short time, Lyders' Taco Bell restaurants have raised enough support on behalf of MHS to help us care for more than 60 additional animals in need!"
The awareness and funds raised by the Mega March are critical to expanding many important programs and services that currently benefit over 100,000 animals each year, including animal sheltering and adoption, veterinary care, cruelty investigation, animal rescue, humane education, legislative advocacy for animals, and in-shelter training programs.
The walk may be over, but it's not too late to make a difference. Donations to the Michigan Humane Society can be made by visiting www.michiganhumane.org, or by calling 1-866-MHUMANE, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also donate while feeding that Taco Bell craving at any of the 21 participating Taco Bell locations listed below:
Clinton Township - 34700 S. Groesbeck Hwy
Clinton Township - 37510 S Gratiot Avenue
Dearborn - 25120 Michigan Avenue
Dearborn - 7120 Schaefer Road
Dearborn - 8956 Warren Road
Dearborn Heights - 8112 Telegraph Road
Livonia - 33203 West Eight Mile Road
Macomb – 45590 Gratiot Ave
Mount Clemens - 103 1/2 N Groesbeck Hwy
Oak Park - 21350 Greenfield Road
Redford - 26450 Plymouth Road
Richmond - 67556 Main Street
Roseville - 25544 Gratiot
Southfield - 24024 W 9 Mile Road
Southfield - 22650 West 8 Mile Road
Sylvan Lake - 2210 Orchard Lake Road
Troy - 41167 Dequindre Rd
Walled Lake - 1163 E. West Maple Road
Warren - 4105 E 8 Mile Road
Warren - 11799 13 Miles Road
Warren - 32270 Van Dyke
Wayne – 32940 Michigan Ave.
Best of all, Lyders and his organization will personally provide "matching donations" equal to the total funds raised within the participating stores at year end.
DES MOINES TACO BELL RAISES FUNDS FOR HUNGER ACTION MONTH
This month, Des Moines area Taco Bell restaurants are donating almost $4,000 to the Food Bank of Iowa! Des Moines, Knoxville, Marshalltown and Fort Dodge - area Taco Bell Restaurants took 15% of sales for the Food Bank of Iowa on Tuesday, September 28th in honor of Hunger Action Month.
The Food Bank of Iowa distributed 5,646,960 pounds of donated food and grocery products this year to its 285 partner agencies in 42 Iowa counties. These agencies include food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shelters and shelters for victims of domestic violence, non-profit day care and residential care centers, as well as child and senior programs.
Taco Bell franchisee and operator, Barb Lucas said, "Des Moines- area Taco Bell feels very strongly about supporting the Food Bank of Iowa; feeding the hungry in our own backyards. We were honored to welcome the public into our restaurants on September 28th to provide necessary exposure to the Food Bank and donate funds to an active, local organization that makes a difference for Iowans every day."
Hunger Action Month is a nationwide call-to-action effort between Feeding America and local food banks to mobilize people everywhere to get involved with ending hunger in America. For more information visit www.hungeractionmonth.org.
DES MOINES TACO BELL SUPPORTS THE FOOD BANK OF IOWA
September is Hunger Action Month!
On September 28 support the Food Bank of Iowa just by eating at Taco Bell! Des Moines, Knoxville, Marshalltown and Fort Dodge - area Taco Bell Restaurants will be donating 15% of sales to the Food Bank of Iowa on Tuesday, September 28th in honor of Hunger Action Month.
The Food Bank of Iowa distributed 5,650,000 pounds of donated food and grocery products last year to its 285 partner agencies in 42 Iowa counties. These agencies include food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shelters and shelters for victims of domestic violence, non-profit day care and residential care centers, as well as child and senior programs.
Taco Bell franchisee and operator, Barb Lucas said, "For the 2nd straight year, Des Moines- area Taco Bell is proud to support the Food Bank of Iowa; feeding the hungry in our own backyards. We are truly honored to welcome the public into our restaurants on September 28th for such an important cause. Taco Bell looks forward to providing the necessary exposure to the Food Bank and donating funds to an active, local organization that makes a difference for Iowans every day."
Hunger Action Month is a nationwide call-to-action effort between Feeding America and local food banks to mobilize people everywhere to get involved with ending hunger in America. For more information visit www.hungeractionmonth.org.
Taco Bell hosts Boys & Girls Clubs of Green Bay and Fox Valley for a night at the Timber Rattlers Time Warner Cable Field.
June 29, 2010 – Green Bay Taco Bell Advertising Association will host hundreds of kids and family members from local Boys & Girls Clubs for Taco Bell Night at Time Warner Cable Field when the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers take on the Burlington Bees at 6:35 PM, Saturday, July 10, 2010. Taco Bell will also provide t-shirts and an in-game offer.
This is the second annual Taco Bell Night at Time Warner Cable Field where Green Bay area Taco Bell has taken its own initiative to make local contributions to the local Boys & Girls Clubs. Nationally, Taco Bell and Boys & Girls Clubs of America have had a long-standing relationship contributing to the educational and emotional enrichment of kids all over the nation.
Rich Lepping, a key operator for Green Bay Taco Bell said, "We're thrilled to continue creating opportunities in our stores and for our customers to engage with this important organization. Boys & Girls Clubs are well-known for their after school programming and their services are vital for the success of our youth in Green Bay."
According to John Benberg, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay, the Taco Bell relationship is a win-win proposition. "Taco Bell understands the importance of investing in young people—they are customers and some could be employees or even franchise owners in the future—so helping kids is also good business."
The Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay (BGCGB) believes every child deserves to be in an environment that brings out the best in them, offering over 100 programs a year that develop and promote healthy lifestyles, academic success, and character & leadership. For more information on the BGCGB visit www.bgcgb.org.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley operates seven full-service sites and serves over 12,500 children and youth annually. With a newly renovated and expanded headquarters at 160 South Badger Avenue near downtown Appleton, the organization provides a diverse array of youth development programs and activities as well as a number of intervention and counseling services through its unique Youth Resource Center.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley emphasizes positive values in the relationships members have with each other. According to Greg Lemke-Rochon, Chief Professional Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley, "Forward thinking companies like Taco Bell understand the critical role Clubs can play in securing a brighter future for us all and we're so grateful for all they've done over these many years and continue to do. Taco Bell's support helps us give young people, especially those who need us most, hope and opportunity. Our kids are really looking forward to this event!"
Michigan Taco Bells To Serve Local Humane Societies. Local Franchises Match Donations to Help Homeless Animals
The economic climate in Michigan has been tough on animals as well as people. Local animal shelters are running at or near capacity, trying to find homes for thousands of homeless animals.
Pete Lyders, owner of 105 Taco Bell's throughout Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois, has vowed to help. Pete's franchisee group has partnered with 12 Humane Society's throughout Michigan to raise money for local shelters.
Each Humane Society designed a canister that was placed in the respective local Taco Bell's to collect donations from customers. Pete's ad agency, ESW Partners in Chicago, donated an in-store poster, asking Taco Bell customers to make a donation.
Pete and his Taco Bell franchisees have promised to match all the donations at year's end.
"Helping to take care of neglected animals is something that makes the entire community feel good, especially in bad times, said Pete Lyders. "We're happy to be able to give something back in this way."
There are currently 12 Humane Society's participating in this fundraiser, being supported by the efforts of 53 Taco Bells. Shelters are not, in general supported by counties or other government agencies. Instead, they rely on donations, small fees for services and volunteers.
"Even donating your change after placing your order will help us provide care for the animals who so desperately need it," said Angela Stevenson of the Greater Hillsdale Humane Society. "Every little donation helps."
The program has been underway for over four months and over $4,500 has been raised.
It will continue through the year at all participating Taco Bells in Central Michigan.
LANSING TACO BELL HOSTS SERIES OF BENEFIT NIGHTS TO SUPPORT LOCAL HIGH SCHOOLS
Local Taco Bell franchisee, Pete Lyders takes action to provide for area high schools. Illinois, 2010
Lansing, MI
Sundance, a 107 unit Taco Bell franchisee based in Brighton, is conducting Benefit Nights for 7 Lansing area high schools from January through March. Proceeds raised from these events will provide financial support for each school’s sports programs. The Benefit Nights kicked off on January 19th and conclude March 2nd
For every Benefit Night held, the Taco Bell restaurant will be donating 10% of its gross, daily sales to the area high school that it is sponsoring.
“There’s quite a high concentration of Taco Bell customers and employees alike who are high school-aged” said Molly Trosko, a lead operator for Pete Lyders and his company, Sundance Inc. “there’s a huge correlation between our restaurants, the Taco Bell brand and local high school kids, so we’re doing things to support them and keep them top-of-mind.”
Similarly, Sundance and its employees continue on-going relationships with local Boys & Girls Clubs located near all of their restaurants across Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin. This is something that Taco Bell Corporate commits to on a national level, as a key benefactor to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
To support a Lansing- area high school this winter, stop by any of the following Taco Bell Benefit Nights at Sundance Taco Bell restaurants at the below listed dates. Don’t forget to enjoy some dinner, too!
Sundance Inc. / Lansing Taco Bell Benefit Nights 2010
1/19/10 Hillsdale High School Benefit Night at 3321 W. Carleton Road in Hillsdale
1/19/10 JW Sexton High School Benefit Night at 4347 W. Saginaw Highway in Lansing
1/22/10 New Covenant High School Benefit Night at 2809 N East Street in Lansing
2/11/10 Okemos High School Benefit Night at 2307 Jolly Road in Okemos
2/16/10 Jonesville High School Benefit Night at 3321 W. Carleton Road in Hillsdale
2/19 Eastern High School Benefit Night at 601 E Grand River Ave in East Lansing
3/2/10 Lansing Catholic High School Benefit Night at 5634 S. Cedar in Lansing
2009 A Big Year for Local Taco Bell Restaurants Illinois, 2009
Chicago, IL
Stuff A Bus this Holiday Season
Chicago Taco Bell has teamed up with 103.5 KISS FM this holiday season to “Stuff A Bus” for the Salvation Army. People are encouraged to fill a school bus full of gently used coats, hats, and canned food for the Salvation Army. Taco Bell donated $ 4,560 directly to the Salvation Army to lend a helping hand.
Boys and Girls Club Grants
You may have noticed Boys and Girl Club canister collections in your Taco Bell. Money raised by company owned Taco Bell’s in the Chicago area was collected throughout the year and was donated to Boys and Girls Clubs in the area. Western Cook County and Northwest Indiana Clubs were awarded $17,000 in grants.
Rockford, IL
Northern IL Food Bank
Rockford Taco Bell gave a financial contribution, as well as a gift to the Northern IL Food Bank this holiday season. Using a local radio schedule, Rockford Taco Bell donated 15 second radio tags on several radio stations to encourage people in Rockford to help out Northern IL Food Bank. Learn more about Northern IL Food Bank by visiting www.northernilfoodbank.org
Grand Rapids, MI
The local Taco Bell owners in Western Michigan will be collecting coats in almost 50 West Michigan Taco Bell restaurants to be donated to local Boys & Girls Clubs starting Monday, December 14th and lasting through Wednesday, December 23rd. West Michigan Taco Bell has committed to redeem one free combo meal per customer per visit if they donate a coat for the cause.
West Michigan TACO BELL Hosts Coat Drive for Local Boys & Girls Clubs Grand Rapids, December, 2009
Grand Rapids, MI: The local Taco Bell owners in Western Michigan continue their ongoing support of West Michigan youth by supporting local Boys & Girls Clubs with everything from nearly $170,000 in donations to hosting area teens at Michigan’s Adventure Water Park.
This is the second consecutive year, Grand Rapids - Kalamazoo Taco Bell restaurant owners, Tony Basile and Rodney Walker have hosted area teens at the popular Muskegon Amusement & Water Park. With an on-going partnership, Taco Bell understands the Boys & Girls Clubs (including Holland, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Battle Creek) to be vibrant local beneficiaries, equipping youth in West Michigan to be responsible adults and good citizens.
Since 2006, West Michigan Taco Bell restaurants have collected and donated $167,166 to local Boys & Girls Clubs and the partnership has grown more and more every year. This is part of a long time relationship between Taco Bell and the BGCA, as well as between franchisee Tony Basile and the Boys & Girls Club Organization. Basile, owner of Chicago Diversified Foods and 45 West Michigan area Taco Bell restaurants accredits a Boys & Girls Club (at that time, the Boys Club) at the Jane Addams Homes in Chicago for keeping him out of trouble as a young boy. Ever since, he has dedicated himself, his resources and his energy to benefit local clubs when possible. Basile was a significant contributor in starting the first Boys & Girls Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan and stays engaged in Club Youth of the Year contests and Club benefit dinners. Before Basile’s involvement, Grand Rapids had been the largest city in the United States without a Boys & Girls Club.
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland Director, Andrew Page, said “On top of being a reliable contributor, Taco Bell always steps up to bat for Boys & Girls Clubs in West Michigan. Whenever we’ve got a need at the Club, Taco Bell always offers the help. Our kids were even welcomed to stop at one of Basile’s Taco Bell stores before the Michigan’s Adventure Field Trips this summer for complimentary lunch.”
Chicago Taco Bell recently hosted a Restaurant General Manager’s Picnic at Indian Lakes Hilton in Bloomingdale, IL. The day was filled with recognition of manager accomplishments along with fun activities and even a visit from Bill Wennington and Benny the Bull. All in all, it was a fantastic day to see the restaurant managers from over 152 Taco Bell’s in the Chicagoland area come together to celebrate their hard work in the restaurants. A congratulations should go out all to all the Restaurant General Manager’s who received awards based on customer feedback. Thank you also to the customers who provide the feedback so our teams can improve on service for you!
Taco Bell Franchisee Receives Prestigious Glen Bell Award RLC Enterprises of Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana and Michigan Recognized For Outstanding Commitment to Operational Excellence Northbrook, IL, October 23, 2009
Taco Bell is proud to announce this year’s winner of the prestigious Glen Bell Award – RLC Enterprises, headquartered in Northbrook, IL. The Glen Bell Award is given to one franchisee who best exemplifies the qualities that Taco Bell’s founder, Glen Bell, brought to the Quick Service Restaurant business and that are found today in the entrepreneurial spirit of Taco Bell’s business partners. The award was presented to franchisee’s Iris Cohn and Terry Haseman of RLC Enterprises at the annual Taco Bell franchise convention in San Antonio, Texas.
RLC Enterprises, Inc was started in 1983 by Dick and Iris Cohn. RLC was the first franchise-owned Taco Bell in the Chicagoland area. Their first store was located in Mundelein, IL. Since their beginnings in 1983 RLC Enterprises, Inc now spans across 4 Midwest states including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. RLC employs over 900 employees and owns 45 Taco Bells among other Yum! concepts.
Taco Bell is proud to have franchise operators like RLC Enterprises setting the standard for future achievement
Grand Rapids Taco Bell Hosts 2nd Annual Field Trips to Michigan's Adventure A local partnership nearing $170,000.00 donations to area Boys & Girls Clubs! Grand Rapids, October 8, 2009
Grand Rapids, MI: The local Taco Bell owners in Western Michigan continue their ongoing support of West Michigan youth by supporting local Boys & Girls Clubs with everything from nearly $170,000 in donations to hosting area teens at Michigan’s Adventure Water Park.
This is the second consecutive year, Grand Rapids - Kalamazoo Taco Bell restaurant owners, Tony Basile and Rodney Walker have hosted area teens at the popular Muskegon Amusement & Water Park. With an on-going partnership, Taco Bell understands the Boys & Girls Clubs (including Holland, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Battle Creek) to be vibrant local beneficiaries, equipping youth in West Michigan to be responsible adults and good citizens.
Since 2006, West Michigan Taco Bell restaurants have collected and donated $167,166 to local Boys & Girls Clubs and the partnership has grown more and more every year. This is part of a long time relationship between Taco Bell and the BGCA, as well as between franchisee Tony Basile and the Boys & Girls Club Organization. Basile, owner of Chicago Diversified Foods and 45 West Michigan area Taco Bell restaurants accredits a Boys & Girls Club (at that time, the Boys Club) at the Jane Addams Homes in Chicago for keeping him out of trouble as a young boy. Ever since, he has dedicated himself, his resources and his energy to benefit local clubs when possible. Basile was a significant contributor in starting the first Boys & Girls Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan and stays engaged in Club Youth of the Year contests and Club benefit dinners. Before Basile’s involvement, Grand Rapids had been the largest city in the United States without a Boys & Girls Club.
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland Director, Andrew Page, said “On top of being a reliable contributor, Taco Bell always steps up to bat for Boys & Girls Clubs in West Michigan. Whenever we’ve got a need at the Club, Taco Bell always offers the help. Our kids were even welcomed to stop at one of Basile’s Taco Bell stores before the Michigan’s Adventure Field Trips this summer for complimentary lunch.”
Chicago Taco Bell recently hosted a Restaurant General Manager’s Picnic at Indian Lakes Hilton in Bloomingdale, IL. The day was filled with recognition of manager accomplishments along with fun activities and even a visit from Bill Wennington and Benny the Bull. All in all, it was a fantastic day to see the restaurant managers from over 152 Taco Bell’s in the Chicagoland area come together to celebrate their hard work in the restaurants. A congratulations should go out all to all the Restaurant General Manager’s who received awards based on customer feedback. Thank you also to the customers who provide the feedback so our teams can improve on service for you!
Taco Bell hosts Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay for a night at the Timber Rattlers Time Warner Cable Field. July 3, 2009
July 3, 2009 – Green Bay and Appleton Taco Bell will host hundreds of kids and family members from area Boys & Girls Clubs for Taco Bell Night at Time Warner Cable Field when the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers take on West Michigan at 7:05 PM, Thursday, July 9, 2009. Taco Bell will also provide coupons, giveaways and entertainment.
This is the first annual Taco Bell Night at Time Warner Cable Field where Green Bay area Taco Bell has taken its own initiative to make local contributions to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Green Bay and Appleton. Nationally, Taco Bell and Boys & Girls Clubs of America have had a long-standing relationship contributing to the educational and emotional enrichment of kids all over the nation.
Rich Lepping, a key operator for Green Bay Taco Bell said, “We’re thrilled to continue creating opportunities in our stores and for our customers to engage with this important organization. Boys & Girls Clubs are well-known for their after school programming and their services are vital for the success of our youth in Green Bay.”
According to John Benberg, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay, the Taco Bell relationship is a great model. “Taco Bell has been a huge supporter of teen programming on a national scale—our Keystone Clubs in particular—and many local franchises go above and beyond that to do even more for school age youth in their community. It’s a really cool partnership.”
The Boys & Girls Club has played a crucial role in the Green Bay community for over 40 years, providing life-changing programs and services to thousands of school age youth. With facilities located at 311 S. Oneida Street (West Club) and 1451 University Ave. (East Club), the Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay provides programs in character and leadership development; educational enhancement; career preparation; health and life skills; the arts; and sports, fitness and recreation among others. Membership to the Club is $5 per year. For more information regarding the Boys & Girls Club programs and/or membership please call 920.494.7090 or visit www.bgcgb.org.
Local Taco Bell Restaurants Give Back March 10, 2009, Illinois and Michigan
Every time you donate your spare change at your local Taco Bell you can help support teen programs at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. You can find the collection boxes and canisters displayed by cash registers in most Taco Bell Restaurants. Along with canister collections and local fundraisers, in 2008 alone, Chicago raised $96,757 followed by Grand Rapids at $53,610, Flint at $27,471, Traverse City at $10,318 , and Rockford at $7,086. Combining those funds, the MyLocalTaco Bell.com restaurants and customers community donated over $195,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Congratulations and thank you to the Taco Bell customers of Chicagoland, Rockford, Green Bay, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing & Traverse City! A little change can go a long way in influencing America’s Youth.
Coupons give back to local West Michigan Boys & Girls Clubs December 11, 2008, Holland, MI
Chicago Diversified Foods and Mariane Inc., both Taco Bell franchisees in West Michigan presented funds to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids, Holland and Kalamazoo. These funds were raised in an in-store redemption program promoted on the back of their most recent coupon insert across all of West Michigan. Five cents from every coupon redeemed at a participating Taco Bell was given back to the local Boys & Girls Clubs.
West Michigan Taco Bell franchisees have made it a top priority and business objective to give bac to local Boys & Girls Clubs where hundreds of kids are being mentored on a daily basis by caring, dedicated staff.
Having grown up attending a Boys Club himself, owner of Chicago Diversified Foods, Tony Basile says “There’s no other place I’d rather allocate these funds. The clubs here are changing the lives of local teenagers – kids who need the leadership, time and influence to make their communities better places someday.“
Boys & Girls Clubs officially opens in Grand Rapids. April 4, 2008, Grand Rapids , MI
Taco Bell was recognized as instrumental to the opening of the new Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth. The Commonwealth serves more than 700 children per year at two sites. An increased service to teens is one of the major focal points in the new program which will include expanded hours of service after school. Chicago Diversified Food Services, a franchisee of Taco Bell in Chicago and Grand Rapids hosted a grand opening in order for visitors to tour the newly renovated facilities, play games, and win prizes to celebrate the event.
