As a brand that is passionate about sports, Buffalo Wild Wings believes that there is a champion in every child and that they should have the opportunity to learn the life lessons gained by playing a team sport.
That’s why during the month of October, the Buffalo Wild Wings Foundation hosts its yearly Team Up For Kids fundraiser in Buffalo Wild Wings sports bars across the country. The Team Up For Kids fundraiser supports local youth sports programs through partners such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s ALL STARS program, which provides access to sports for kids who would otherwise not have the chance to play.
For general managers like Douglas Florence, who leads the Buffalo Wild Wings in College Station, Texas, Team Up For Kids is why his team anticipates the beginning of October every year.
“It’s our time to give back to the community.” Douglas Florence, General Manager, Buffalo Wild Wings College Station, Texas
Growing up, Douglas spent countless hours at his local Boys & Girls Club, which ultimately motivated him to play team sports. Douglas played football throughout his high school and college career, but it was the off-the-field skills that made a tremendous impact on his life.
“I learned how to follow instructions, build trust and understand how rewarding it is to be part of a team,” Douglas said.
Now, as a Buffalo Wild Wings GM, Douglas can give back to the very organization that he credits with teaching him the lessons that have driven his success. Not only is he passionate about the cause, but his sports bar has also ranked No. 1 in the entire program three years in a row for their fundraising efforts, contributing more than $20,000 in 2018 alone.
The secret ingredient to his fundraising success is simple: “It’s about coming together to have fun and make a real impact in our community. Seeing the faces of the children we help is priceless.”
Douglas recently had the opportunity to see his team’s efforts pay off when they assisted the local Boys & Girls Club in Waco, Texas, in building a brand new sports court.
To support local initiatives like the Waco Club’s new court, guests can donate to the Buffalo Wild Wings Foundation in Buffalo Wild Wings sports bars across the country throughout the month of October. For every donation of $5 and above, guests will receive a free Hatch Queso on their next visit.