Men in Philanthropy: Mark Waldo

For many hospitality workers, once they get a taste of the industry, hospitality is in their blood for life. This is especially true for Mark Waldo, founder and CEO of Waldo’s Chicken and Beer. When he and his partners launched the brand, it was crucial to them that giving back to the community was at the core of the restaurant’s mission and values.

Three years ago, Mark’s brother-in-law, Aaron, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Looking for resources and help led Mark and Aaron’s other caregivers to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). The organization helped Aaron by providing support, education and financial grants while he was in treatment and recovery. That compassion inspired Mark — and helped him understand that many of his customers were also affected by the disease in some way.

About every three minutes, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma, according to the LLS. The organization estimates that 187,740 Americans will be diagnosed with one of those cancers this year. 

After seeing the care and focus the LLS provided its patients, Mark felt that it was only natural to continue working with them. Waldo’s Chicken and Beer began by providing food for the popular LLS fundraising walk, Light the Night, where participants carry lanterns — red for supporters, white for cancer survivors and gold for those in memory — to indicate where they are on their cancer journey. 

“Since our first event, we have established our own walk team — Waldo’s Walk for Aaron — and expanded our food sponsorship to other cities within the Southeast where there is an existing Light the Night event,” says Mark.