When you think of Sloppy Joe’s, the Duval Street landmark known around the world, it may bring to mind fun, live music and street-packed events. Now the owners of Sloppy Joe’s are making history in 2023 as philanthropists, with the establishment of the Sloppy Joe’s Foundation Fund at the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. The organization’s commitment to giving back to the residents of Key West and the Florida Keys will include grantmaking to benefit local youth, individuals and families, civic organizations, art, cultural and environmental preservation.
“Since 1937, the Sloppy Joe’s legacy has been a cornerstone built on tradition and giving back by supporting our island community, said Jeffrey E. Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Sloppy Joe’s Enterprises. “When creating a formal giving program, it made sense to partner with the Community Foundation so we can leverage the Foundation’s 27 years of established processes, knowledge of local nonprofit needs, and connections within the community.”
Community Foundation board chair Will Langley said that the Sloppy Joe’s Foundation Fund will empower Sloppy Joe’s to take a more strategic and impactful approach to its philanthropy. “By consolidating its giving and having the Foundation’s help in identifying and addressing pressing needs, Sloppy Joe’s will have a lasting and substantial impact on the Key West community,” he said. Corporate advised funds offer greater flexibility, scalability, and potential for long-term sustainability compared to making individual gifts directly to charities. “Visitors are drawn to destinations that emphasize community involvement and sustainability. A well-publicized partnership can set a business apart, attracting tourists who want to support local businesses that contribute to the well-being of the community they are visiting,” added Jodi Weinhofer, Community Foundation board member and president of The Lodging Association of the Florida Keys and Key West.
Sloppy Joe’s and the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys have already partnered for decades on the Hemingway Look-Alike Society Fund. The 42nd Annual Look-Alike contest held at Sloppy Joe’s in July was a record-breaker, and to date more than $400,000 has been awarded for scholarships for Key West High School graduating seniors and College of the Florida Keys students. Over the coming season, Sloppy Joe’s will be rolling out giving opportunities for its patrons from around the world and launching special perks to recognize Sloppy Joe’s Foundation donors. To make a charitable contribution to the fund, visit cffk.org/sloppyjoes.