The Apple Gold Group, franchisee of Applebee’s restaurants in North Carolina, Oklahoma and Arkansas, is proud to have helped Students Taking A New Direction (S.T.A.N.D.), a program that brings school-age youth together to build character, responsibility and respect, raise over $1,300 at a recent Flapjack Fundraiser. Proceeds raised will go towards its upcoming Praise in the Park event, a day of inspirational speaking, music, games and entertainment at Rotary Park.

"Praise in the Park will be a wonderful event for the participating youth and we were delighted to support S.T.A.N.D.’s fundraising efforts for it," said Michael Olander, President and CEO of the Apple Gold Group. "We are glad the fundraiser was a success and we wish this program the best of luck with its upcoming endeavors."

The S.T.A.N.D. fundraiser was hosted on May 28, 2011, by the Applebee’s restaurant located at 415 W. Shawnee St., Muskogee, OK. The organization sold 205 tickets and an additional $50 in donations was collected. Breakfast included a short stack of pancakes, sausage, milk, juice and coffee.

Applebee’s is proud to partner with any local non-profit organization as a way to raise money for their cause. From ticket sales to event-day staff, the breakfasts are managed by the non-profit organization with the assistance of Applebee’s employee volunteers. Breakfasts can be held on Saturday or Sunday morning, and cost the organization around $2 a meal. The Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraisers represent the restaurant chain’s latest efforts to remain active within its local neighborhood. To request a Flapjack Fundraiser to benefit your non-profit organization, please visit www.AGGrestaurants.com.