FMK Restaurants Shine at Salvation Army Soup Off, Helping Raise Nearly $30,000 for Local Families

The Village community came together in an extraordinary way at this year’s Salvation Army Soup Off, where compassion, culinary creativity, and community spirit took center stage. Thanks to remarkable support from residents, volunteers, and local restaurants—including several FMK Hospitality Group locations—the event was a resounding success.

After speaking with event organizer Jackie Cepaitis, we gained a full picture of the incredible effort behind the scenes. The Villages Friends of the Salvation Army, a dedicated volunteer group supporting the Leesburg Salvation Army, played a major role in making the event possible. More than 80 volunteers gave their time to ensure everything ran smoothly, and additional support was provided by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC). Their teamwork truly showcased the heart of our community.

The turnout exceeded expectations, with 463 tickets sold—a testament to the generosity and enthusiasm of Villages residents. Through this overwhelming participation, the event raised approximately $29,000, all of which will help support vital Salvation Army programs throughout our local area.

Several restaurants stepped up to donate and participate, making the Soup Off a delicious highlight for attendees. 

We are especially proud to share that Belle Glade Country Club earned the 2025 Golden Ladle Award for People’s Choice Best Soup with their outstanding Butternut Squash Soup. This honor reflects not only the culinary talent of the Belle Glade team but also the meaningful role our restaurants play in community-driven events.

FMK Hospitality Group is honored to participate in initiatives that uplift our community and support organizations providing essential care. We extend our gratitude to every volunteer, guest, and restaurant team member who helped make this year’s Soup Off such a tremendous success.

Together, we’re making a difference—one bowl at a time.