The Jitney Giving Train supports local organizations

     After five successful years in business in downtown Monticello, The Jitney is wanting to give back to the same community that shows them love and support.

     The Jitney Giving Train was started as an effort to dedicate every month to a particular organization or non-profit in the community. A percentage of all sales from 9 p.m. to midnight every Friday and Saturday during that month will go directly to a designated organization.

     “It’s important to support our community,” Erin Cox, Jitney co-owner said. “We wouldn’t have been here for five years without their support, and we wanted to show how much we appreciate them so we’re giving back.”

     The Jitney has designated the month of March to the Monticello School District Foundation, April to the Austin Strong Foundation, and May to the Monticello Food Pantry.

     Jitney co-owner Katie Farrowe said they get asked many times to donate a gift basket or gift certificate to local fundraisers. Yet, they never know how much that item actually brings in. By donating 10 percent of their sales for a whole month, they can better track that donation, knowing exactly how much they are giving back.

     “This way we know we're contributing by raising awareness for the foundation and well as writing a check at the end of the month” explained Farrowe.

     With 10 percent of all Friday and Saturday night sales from 9 p.m. to midnight for one month going to one organization, Farrowe said that could total anywhere from $100 to $500.

      “Or more,” added Cox.

     The Jitney sees this Giving Train concept enticing people to come in during that timeframe, knowing a portion of their drink and food sales is going to a deserving organization.

     As for how they chose the first of three worthy organizations, Cox said it has to do with timing. The Monticello School Foundation annual dinner and auction takes place every March, and the Austin Strong Gala is held every April. Cox said they wanted to include the food pantry “because they are in dire need right now.”

      “Any organization or group that’s in need of extra money right now is a goof fit,” Cox said. “There are so many around here.”

     She said that 10 percent at the end of the month adds up.

      “It all goes to a good cause. We love this community and here is a small way to show it,” said Farrowe.

     In addition to designating those funds, The Jitney is also planning to serve drink specials from 9 p.m. to midnight.

     A year ago, The Jitney introduced the concept of guest bartenders. They brought in a duo to bar tend during the evening, with all tips going to an organization of their choice. Cox said they want to bring back guest bartenders, encouraging representatives from the school foundation, Austin Strong, or the food pantry to reach out if interested.

     “Someone from those organizations can come in and guest bartend,” urged Cox.

     If no one is interested, The Jitney will find some willing volunteers, again with tips going to that month’s charity.

     The Jitney’s goal is to designate 10 percent of their weekend sales every month for a year.

     “We’re open to suggestions to add to our list,” Cox said of organizations wanting to get their name in the hat. “Our goal is to do it for a year.”

     “There are plenty of organizations out there,” said Farrowe.

     To assist in The Jitney’s efforts, Karde’s C-Store and Karde’s 151 is going to match the donations to the school foundation, Austin Strong and the food pantry for the first three months.

     You can contact The Jitney at 319-465-7094, or stop in at 126 E. First St. in Monticello.