Bartenders get ugly for charity

The Leukaemia Foundation is calling on Australian bartenders to sign up to its U.G.L.Y. Bartender of the Year fundraising initiative that will be running in October.

The U.G.L.Y (Understanding, Generous, Likeable You) Bartender of the Year challenge is in its fifth year with bartenders who sign up encouraged to host fun events and activities through their venue to raise money to assist regional families impacted by leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood disorders.

"Money raised by U.G.L.Y. Bartenders will help the Leukaemia Foundation continue to provide regional families with a fully furnished place to call home in the city for as long as they need it. Accommodation is provided completely free of charge, helping families stay together when they need each other the most," said Leukaemia Foundation general manager Simon Matthias.

Matthias said 1270 bartenders are anticipated to sign up for the event. "They’ll all stand out wearing their t-shirts with ‘I’m U.G.L.Y – I need help!’ printed on them."

"Every $80 raised gives regional families a place to call home for a night and last financial year, 725 families stayed for an average of 38 nights across Australia."

The fundraising incentive also rewards those who raise the most money, with a range of great prizes up for grabs. The person who raises the most money will be crowned the U.G.L.Y. Bartender of the Year and receive a six day trip from Cairns to Airlie Beach valued at $3,500, while also earning a fully installed Hoshizaki ice machine for their venue.

Bartenders can head to www.uglybartender.org.au to register and find out more, including fundraising tips. People can also donate money to participating bartenders through the website.

Source: The Shout, 15 August 2012