The Parkers Give in Honor of Willy Cellucci

A letter from Giving Kitchen supporters Chad and Carrier Parker:

Chad and Carrie Parker

The late Willy Cellucci was a consummate professional and served as the General Manager of The Palm restaurant for 16 years. Willy fought a valiant battle with cancer but ultimately succumbed to this terrible disease in 2013. After his diagnosis, friends and colleagues organized The Pinky in his honor to raise money for his treatment.

The first Pinky felt much like the first Team Hidi. The outpouring of love, money and support was amazing and showed just how charitable the restaurant community can be in a time of need. After Willy passed, tournament organizers partnered with GK to have the funds generated by The Pinky go to GK in Willy’s memory. Willy was one of the finest people we have ever known, and his legacy of service and hospitality will always be remembered by those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

From Willy and Ryan to thousands of others, it’s encouraging to see GK continue to expand. What started as an effort to support one person in need is blossoming into a statewide effort, and GK’s charitable message resonates with everyone everywhere. We like supporting organizations that have a clear-cut message, deliver results and are good stewards of funds provided by fundraising - and GK does all of this consistently.

We are big believers in the people that have shaped what GK is today. They are some of the most humble, passionate and professional people we know. GK’s impact not only benefits those food service workers who need immediate help, but it also serves as a shining example of the power of partnership. GK’s success proves that when smart, focused people come together for good, something special can happen.