FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Main-Dempster Mile Selects Curt’s Cafe as Nonprofit Partner for 2026 Evanston Wine Walk
EVANSTON, IL — [June 12, 2026] — The Main-Dempster Mile is proud to announce that Curt’s Cafe has been selected as the official nonprofit partner for the 2026 Evanston Wine Walk, taking place on Thursday, September 10, 2026, throughout Evanston’s vibrant Main-Dempster business district. A portion of event proceeds will be donated to Curt’s Cafe in support of its mission to provide workforce training, mentoring, and life-skills development for young adults facing barriers to employment.
Hosted by the Main-Dempster Mile, the Evanston Wine Walk invites participants to enjoy wine tastings, small bites, live music, and shopping at dozens of locally owned businesses throughout the neighborhood. The annual event has become one of Evanston’s most popular community gatherings, celebrating local merchants while giving back to organizations that strengthen the community. Each year, the event partners with a local nonprofit and shares a portion of proceeds in recognition of its impact.
“Curt’s Cafe exemplifies the spirit of community investment that makes Evanston such a special place,” said Katherine Gotsick, Executive Director of the Main-Dempster Mile. “Their commitment to helping young adults build confidence, skills, and career pathways creates lasting change for individuals and families. We are honored to support their work through this year’s Wine Walk.”
Founded in Evanston in 2012, Curt’s Cafe provides hands-on workforce development through a unique café-based training model, helping participants gain professional experience, employment readiness skills, and personal support as they prepare for successful careers.
“We are deeply grateful to the Main-Dempster Mile for choosing Curt’s Cafe as this year’s nonprofit partner,” said Niki Moe, Development Director of Curt’s Cafe. “This partnership not only provides critical financial support for our programs but also raises awareness of the opportunities and potential of the young people we serve. We look forward to joining the community for a wonderful evening.”
The 2026 Evanston Wine Walk will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on September 10, with participants sampling wines at businesses along Main Street, Dempster Street and Chicago Avenue while exploring one of Evanston’s most distinctive shopping and dining districts.
Tickets are available through Eventbrite at https://2026EvanstonWineWalk.eventbrite.com. Community members are encouraged to attend, support local businesses, and help advance Curt’s Cafe’s mission of empowering young adults through education, training, and opportunity.
Both organizations are seeking volunteers to help execute the Wine Walk. For volunteer opportunities, contact Niki Moe at Curt’s Cafe, niki@curtscafe.org.
About the Main-Dempster Mile
The Main-Dempster Mile is a community organization dedicated to supporting the independent businesses, cultural attractions, and neighborhood vitality of the Main Street and Dempster Street commercial district in Evanston. Through events, marketing, placemaking, and business support initiatives, the organization works to strengthen one of Evanston’s most unique and diverse commercial corridors.
About Curt’s Cafe
Curt’s Cafe is a nonprofit organization that provides workforce training, mentoring, and life-skills development for young adults facing barriers to employment. Through hands-on café operations and individualized support, Curt’s Cafe helps participants develop the skills and confidence needed to achieve long-term personal and professional success.
Media Contacts:
Katherine Gotsick
Main-Dempster Mile
katherine@maindempstermile.com
Niki Moe
Curt’s Cafe
niki@curtscafe.org
Event Information:
2026 Evanston Wine Walk Ticket Information
Organization Websites:
Main-Dempster Mile
Curt’s Cafe |
