FIRA Funding with Friends!

I still remember the hum of conversation, the clink of silverware, and the warmth of a busy night at Leverett Lounge. As a server, I got to experience firsthand the magic that happens when people gather over a meal—the way food can bring people together like nothing else. Working there wasn’t just a job; it was a place where I built friendships, connected with my community, and became part of something bigger than myself.

That’s why, when I had the chance to give back to Fayetteville’s restaurant community, I jumped in without hesitation. Today, I help with the Fayetteville Independent Restaurant Alliance (FIRA), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local restaurants, their staff, and the industry that makes our town vibrant. I help with social media, grants, and advertising, but more than that, I get to play a small part in keeping our beloved local spots alive.

Restaurants are more than just businesses. They are places of gathering, where first dates happen, birthdays are celebrated, and friendships grow stronger. They provide jobs, fuel our local economy, and make Fayetteville the funky, welcoming place we all love. But the truth is, many of the faces inside of these beloved spots have encountered struggles that most people never see. That’s where FIRA steps in.

FIRA helps hospitality workers in need, providing emergency grants, advocacy, and resources to ensure these small businesses and the ones who keep those small businesses alive can continue serving our community. Every donation goes toward helping a hospitality worker stay afloat. Without local restaurants, Fayetteville wouldn’t be the same—and with your support, we can make sure they thrive.

If you love this town, its food, and the hardworking people behind every meal, consider donating to FIRA. Your contribution can make a real impact, helping the places we cherish survive and grow. I’ve seen firsthand how much it means to these community members, and I promise you—it’s worth every penny. Let’s keep Fayetteville’s food scene strong, funky, and vibrant together.