SoDel Cares 2nd Annual Fundraiser a Success

SoDel Cares held its second annual fundraiser Oct. 1 at Fish On in the Villages of Five Points in Lewes. Fish On is one of the nine restaurants owned by SoDel Concepts, which started SoDel Cares in 2015 to honor the company’s founder, the late Matt Haley, who was nationally recognized for his philanthropy.

“Matt created a company culture that is dedicated to giving back to the community,” said Mike Dickinson, vice president of SoDel Concepts. “He firmly believed that you should help those in need every day and in any way possible. We are committed to carrying on his legacy.”

In its first year, SoDel Cares donated funds to local charaties that benefit children, at-risk youth, adults re-entering society from the prison system, and the elderly who need assistance. Some of the beneficiaries include The Harry K. Foundation, Primeros Pasos, Pathways to Success, Meals on Wheels Lewes/Rehoboth, Surfers Healing and Camp

"We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support we received this year from our community. We received donated goods and services from so many fellow business people and friends, and the turnout for the event was amazing," said Lindsey Barry, SoDel Concepts controller, who has been with the company for more than 11 years. "This year's event was a great party, filled with local business people, state representatives, volunteers from community-based charities and SoDel employees. I think everyone had a really good time."

SoDel Cares is managed by the Delaware Community Fund, an organization dedicated to facilitating philanthropy throughout Delaware. The Matthew James Haley Trust announced it will match funds raised at the event, and SoDel Concepts also pledged to donate a matching amount, tripling the total earnings for the evening.

To make a donation to SoDel Cares via the Delaware Community Fund, go to www.sodelcares.com and click on the donate button. To mail a donation, send a check payable to SoDel Cares; c/o Delaware Community Foundation, 36 The Circle; Georgetown, DE 19947-4393.