A successful agent and casting director for over 25 years, Maureen Webb, 52, and her sister, Donalda Weaver, recently welcomed foodies to the opening of their first restaurant. The latest establishment to open in a revitalized Chinatown, East of Main Café boasts a laid-back vibe, smart cocktails and an eclectic menu that is drawing many to the evolving 'hood. What separates Webb and her sister's East of Main concept from other establishments is its mission and desire to give back.
How is East of Main Café different from other restaurant ventures?
All profits are donated to the Project Limelight Society, a free performing arts program for children living in Vancouver's East Side. The café, which has a studio upstairs, also provides meals and snacks to the Project Limelight children during each rehearsal and workshop. Our goal is to provide a safe place for children to build an artistic community, to inspire them to discover their inner strengths, build confidence, explore their hidden talents and form lasting friendships. Above all, Project Limelight is about giving kids opportunities and having fun!
How did the idea come about? Project Limelight and East of Main Café came about 18 months ago while on a soul-searching trip to Europe after our mother passed away. My sister and I wanted to use our combined experience and skills in performing arts and fundraising to offer a safe place for youth to pursue passion and education.
There must be an easier way to fundraise than operating a restaurant?
Absolutely, but our goal is to create a social enterprise that provides sustainable cash
flow apart from traditional fundraising.
What are some of the projects the society has supported?
Project Limelight works with children aged eight to 15. Each session is four months long and runs three days a week. Our last production of ALICE was performed in front of 600 people at The Fei and Milton Wong Theatre at SFU Woodward's. Currently we're in rehearsals for an adaptation of The Wizard of Oz to be staged in February. The children recently performed at Strathcona Community Centre's 40th Anniversary Celebration and The Heart of the City Festival.
Project Limelight has had the support of some impressive people including Sir Richard Branson and GLEE's Cory Monteith.
How can people get involved? That is the beauty of East of Main Café. To get involved, guests simply eat, drink and have a fabulous time at the café knowing the profits will be donated to the Project Limelight Society.
What is the ultimate goal of your organization?
To help young people realize their full potential, by fostering self-esteem and building self-confidence. To build a kick-ass watering hole, with great food and cocktails, that will sustain Project Limelight and other youth programs in the area.
