Falcons “Huddle Up” To Raise Money For Children

Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith hosted the first “Huddle up for Miracles” dinner in his tenure with the team on May 18, raising more than $190,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network which, in turn, will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Capital Grille hosted the event, which featured Falcons players and coaches as servers, valets, elevator operators and flower salesmen. They also provided entertainment via a karaoke machine.

“It was a fun night and an event that we had done in Jacksonville,” Smith said. “It was a concept I had wanted to put out there. It was a big, big success. It exceeded all the expectations we had for a first-year event. I’m very thankful for the players and coaches that participated in it.”

Players and coaches competed for tips throughout the night. Money raised was added to proceeds from an on-site auction and participants won a variety of awards for their efforts including “Most Charming” (Roddy White) and “Most Valuable Waiter” (D.J. Shockley).

The celebrity wait staff generated more than $48,000 in tips.

The Capital Grille owns and operates 37 locations across the nation and has been recognized by numerous magazines. The chain recently received the “Achievement of Excellence Award” from the American Culinary Federation.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to partner with the Atlanta Falcons in supporting such an important and exceptional cause,” said Ricardo Barraza, managing partner of the Capital Grille’s Atlanta location. “We value their dedication to the community and we are pleased to have been an integral part of the event.

“Our partnership with the Atlanta Falcons has been a pleasure and The Capital Grille is delighted to contribute to the Huddle Up for Miracles event.”

Other presenting sponsors included CM&D, Miller Lite, QUIKRETE, SunTrust and ADP.

“We had a whole lot of fun and I think we’ll sit back and evaluate how we can make it better for everybody next year,” Smith said.