COVID-Friendly Progressive Dinner Boosts MVCAP Student Career Programs

Even in the midst of a pandemic, the Mahoning Valley College Access Program pulled off another progressive dinner fundraiser last month, this time attracting 80 guests and raising $2,500 for programs that help inner-city high school students shape their futures.

“Our annual event was definitely different this year, but we were thrilled that four local, independent restaurants, a coffee shop and two nonprofits were able to set up safe, separate stops for our COVID-friendly four-course get-together,” said Gerri Jenkins, MVCAP executive director. “We appreciated the flexibility and commitment of all involved – participants, donors and sponsors.”

MVCAP provides resources and tools that help high school students in Youngstown, Warren and Campbell explore post-secondary education, career/technical training, workforce opportunities and military service. 

The Warren-based nonprofit has hosted a progressive dinner fundraiser every year since 2015.

The Nov. 6 fundraiser in downtown Warren featured these four segments:

• Cocktails provided by Charbenay’s at BRITE.
• Appetizers by Cockeye Barbeque at the Trumbull Art Gallery.
• Dinner at four separate venues — Jacked Steakhouse, Saratoga, Charbenay’s and West & Main Bar and Grill.
• Dessert and raffle prizes at NOVA Coffee Company with ice cream provided by Cockeye Creamery.

Co-sponsors of the event included Paige & Byrnes Insurance, 717 Credit Union, Youngstown State University Foundation, Cafaro Foundation, PNC Bank, Huntington Bank, HBK CPAs & Consultants, Flying High Inc.’s Professional Development Center, Maruca Law Firm, Inspiring Minds and American Maintenance Services.

Eastern Gateway Community College, Kent State University, and Youngstown State University were among those who provided 22 themed raffle baskets.

“The Progressive Dinner fundraiser is always a success because of the wide support we receive from local businesses and the overall community,” said Denise Glinatsis Bayer, a senior trust officer and vice president at Huntington National Bank and MVCAP board president. “With the challenges of this year, we were very grateful to still have so many individuals and organizations continue to share their generosity and support for our organization.”