Bruster's Offers Sweet Fundraising Help to Local Groups

During the last few remaining weeks in 2011,  is providing a way to warm the hearts of local organizations with a frosty treat deal.

Dawn Rodriguez, owner of Bruster's, said they are holding an end-of-the-year special for groups to raise money: Book an in-store fundraiser by Dec. 31 and as long as the event occurs before Feb. 29, 2012, the organization will receive 20 percent of the net sales they generate. 

“One of the things that drew us to Bruster's was the ability to get involved with the community," Rodriguez said. "I had seen how other Bruster's had partnered with multiple organizations ... and loved that aspect of the business. Not all franchises allow such latitude."

Rodriguez and her husband feel that in-store fundraisers benefit both the organization and their store.

“It raises much-needed funds for the organization and it promotes our store," said David Patty, Rodriguez’s husband and business partner. "It also helps bring customers in our store during a time of year when we are generally slow."

Rodriguez said she can’t wait for customers to taste their new seasonal selections such as Peppermint Stick.

“It is a vanilla ice cream with peppermint flakes," she said. "I know children and adults alike will go crazy for this new treat.”

She also said there are two other holiday-inspired flavors.

“Rum Raisin is a hit. It is mixed with raisins soaked in a rum-flavored sauce. We also have a new eggnog-flavored ice cream,” said Rodriguez.

Another fundraising option allows groups to sell pies. Customers pick up the pies at the store after they place orders with the group that is fundraising. Pies can be customized for holidays and seasons. Then, the group receives a portion of the sales.

Rodriguez said that since their , they have done in-store fundraisers for mostly small organizations and preschools. She added that other Bruster's have partnered with multiple organizations including PTAs, school groups, church groups, scouts, sports teams and SPCA.

“We look forward to holding larger events," she said. "You can’t help but have fun with an in-store fundraiser: You are getting ice cream and seeing people you know.”

The store is located off Route 3, next to .