"I wanted to do a cool neighborhood event that brought the neighbors together," said Joe Gardella, proprietor of Joe Benny's Focacceria about the January 8 Little Italy Meatball Fest at the Little Italy Lodge. "Little Italy is such an awesome place. I love it. What better piece of Italian food than the meatball? Everyone has their own meatball story, why not bring the two together?"

One thousand dollars was raised for Pandola Learning Center in Little Italy, and everyone left with a full belly; a sellout 250 were in attendance. Leftover food was donated to Beans & Bread, a local resource center helping those less fortunate with meals, healthcare, and job opportunities. Raffled gift cards were donated by Ciao Bella, Sabatino's, Vaccaro's, Aldo's, Osteria da Amedeo, Joe Benny's, and Marriott Waterfront. Pandola donated two complimentary classes; Little Italy Lodge donated dinner for two. View winners, photos and videos here.

Source: Promotion Center for Little Italy, Baltimore