Giving back to the community
Dave shares that commitment with the people who work at his local business in Westlake, where the whole staff puts that belief into action by getting involved with charitable organizations and events.
On a regular basis, the team at Peppi’s Pizza provides food for the local American Red Cross blood drives, feeding the doctors, nurses and blood donors, and sends each donor home with a coupon for free chicken wings.
They recently participated in events for the Citizens of Westlake Schools and Bay Band Boosters and frequently feed the staff at the Westlake Police Department, Westlake Fire Department and St. John Medical Center. Other beneficiaries of their generosity include St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Sunrise Assisted Living and the Tay Sachs Foundation.
The Leader Light Foundation, formed in memory of Dave’s nephew,Nicholas Rauser who died in a car accident at the age of 15, holds a special place in his heart. The foundation gives scholarships to students in area cities, including Westlake and Bay Village.
Scholarships are awarded to worthy graduates who possess the same leadership qualities as Nick displayed during his life. To raise money for the scholarship fund, the Leader Light Foundation is sponsoring their 2nd Annual 5K run and 1-mile walk to be held June 12 in North Olmsted.
Dave and his family will be walking in the event and he and his team will supply food for the after party.
For those wishing to participate, pre-race packages will be available for pick-up on June 9 from 5-8 p.m. at Carrabba’s Italian Grill at 25054 Sperry Rd. in Westlake. For additional information, please visit www.nicholasrauser.com.
Laura Gonzalez lives in Bay Village.