News Room

Virtual Community Dining and Toast to Celebrate Champaign County Hospitality

March 26, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                   
March 26, 2020

Virtual Community Dining and Toast to Celebrate Champaign County Hospitality

Champaign, IL – On Saturday, March 28, ChambanaMoms.com, You’re Welcome CU, and Visit Champaign County will host Takeout & A Toast for Champaign County virtually though Facebook. The event encourages locals to get takeout from their restaurant of choice, and participate in a virtual toast to the community at 6:30 p.m.

“While restaurants have closed their doors, and individuals remain in their homes as part of the stay-at-home order, the sense of community in the greater Champaign County area has only grown,” states Terri Reifsteck, Vice President of Marketing & Community Engagement for Visit Champaign County. “The support for our hospitality and service industries has been overwhelming, so we wanted to bring the community together, virtually, to celebrate that.”

The event, which can be found on Facebook, will feature a live video between the three hosts, commenting on community collaboration and the ways local businesses have responded. Individuals are encouraged to engage in the conversation through the chat, share stories about their favorite businesses, as well as photos of their takeout. Throughout the event, there will be giveaways of local restaurant gift cards and community t-shirts.

“Whether it’s sharing resources and ideas, supporting small businesses, checking on a neighbor, or donating supplies, I’ve been so impressed by how Champaign County has come together during this time of need and uncertainty – and that’s something worth taking a moment to acknowledge,” says Carly McCrory-McKay, Executive Director of the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation. “We hope the community will join us on Saturday evening to share what’s inspired them.”

“Our mission is to build community among Champaign-Urbana area families, and that’s what keeps us going daily. While we navigate through discomfort and uncertainty, one thing we are certain about is how much compassion and love exists among our community. We are so inspired by the way virtual events have made us feel connected in these times, ” explains Laura Weisskopf Bleill, mom in chief, chambanamoms.com

Visit Champaign County is maintaining an extensive list of local restaurants offering delivery and curbside pickup for those interested in takeout found at visitchampaigncounty.org/covid.

Additionally, this page also includes information on local shops, attractions and events impacted by COVID-19.