The employer of a local gay man who was seriously injured in a letter-bomb incident last month is hosting a community celebration and fundraiser in his honor next month.
To support banquet worker Jim Alden, Brûlée Catering is organizing “Community Comes Together: Send Love to Jim” Jan. 23 at Dilworth Park’s Rothman Cabin and Ice Rink, 1 S. 15th St. Tickets are $10 and 100 percent of ticket sales will be donated to Alden. All event expenses will be paid by Brûlée, its employees, vendors and other sponsors and volunteers.
On Nov. 22, Alden opened a package that had been delivered to his Center City home and it exploded, causing shrapnel injuries to his face, hands and chest. Investigators say Alden was targeted but have not announced a motive yet. They released video surveillance of a person of interest last month, but no arrest was made as of presstime.
In a statement to PGN, Brûlée said the company wanted to support Alden as he continues to recuperate. Both Alden and partner Jason Hall work for Brûlée, in different capacities.
“Jim and Jason, who this unfortunate event affected, are both close friends of Brûlée Catering,” the company said. “A lot of people came together and suggested we do something and what better way than to throw a fundraising event?”
A friend of Alden also set up a crowdfunding site (https://www.youcaring.com/jimalden-700809) to help with medical bills and other expenses. Donors from around the country have contributed more than $26,000 as of presstime.
Brûlée said the local event is another way to give back.
“We want to bring the community together, even people who may not be related to this incident,” the company said. “When anyone is hurt, we want to be there as a community and support them.”
Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance (http://bit.ly/2i6N1Ox). Each ticket includes admission to the ice rink and a pair of rental skates — organizers noted guests don’t have to skate and can enjoy the indoor cabin instead — as well as live entertainment. The lineup is still being finalized but will include emcee Robert “Sandy Beach” Hitchen and a DJ. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, as will raffle tickets to such prizes as a basket of cheer, theater tickets and restaurant gift certificates.
For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/215347222256775/.