Foundation Donates $240,000 to Lou Ruvo Brain Institute


The Epicurean Charitable Foundation Las Vegas announced its contribution of $240,000 to the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute (LRBI) on Monday, March 31 with a check presentation to LRBI executives. The LRBI, along with Keep Memory Alive, are the brainchild of prominent Las Vegas businessman and philanthropist Larry Ruvo. Anticipated to open late 2008, the LRBI will conduct research and provide services for people affected by memory disorders and neurodegenerative brain diseases including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, ALS and other memory disorders. The Foundation has been supporting Keep Memory Alive at their annual event since 2004.


"We are very proud to continue supporting this tremendous organization in a greater capacity," said Shawn Ritchie, president of the Epicurean Charitable Foundation Las Vegas. "We are confident Keep Memory Alive and the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute are on their way to finding the cure for these devastating diseases. We are privileged to be able to help."


The Foundation will provide the contribution in increments over six years with the funds going toward research and development. In addition to contributing to the LRBI, the Foundation also most recently contributed $20,000 to FIT for an Independent Tomorrow to help unemployed and underemployed Nevadans toward financial stability.


Playing an active role in building a stronger community, the Epicurean Charitable Foundation has made financial contributions to numerous local charities and organization including the Nevada Cancer Institute, UNLV Athletics and Opportunity Village.


About the Epicurean Charitable Foundation Las Vegas


Founded in May 2001, the Epicurean Charitable Foundation Las Vegas was created as a forum for Las Vegas food and beverage executives to share ideas and knowledge to foster a stronger and more unified hospitality industry in Las Vegas.  Comprised of more than 40 of Las Vegas' top food & beverage executives, the Foundation's members have dedicated their time and resources to the goal of aligning the hospitality industry with the community through support of the local education system, related organizations, charities and associations. The Epicurean Charitable Foundation Las Vegas can be reached at 702-932-5098 or via their website at www.ECFLV.org.