about us

Senseless gun violence has been rampant, and on the rise over the years. This senseless

gun violence led to the loss of my son Javari, and many more young people who could have had

a brighter future. Society and our legal system limits our chances which causes many young

people to become discouraged with life. Life comes with all types of curve balls. Why should

one be able to decide how many chances a person gets until they get it right? Many of the males

in our communities get acquainted with the wrong crowds which causes them to become a

product of their environment at an early age.

Soul food is prepared from the heart and is nourishing to the body and soul. It takes you

back to those heart-felt meals that are and were prepared in grandma's kitchen. Vari’s will

contain recipes that have been passed down from the matriarch of the family known as “Bigma”.

Recipes that are succulent, bold in flavor, vibrant, aromatic, and last but not least prepared with

an enormous amount of love. Vari’s offers healthier choice meal options items on its menu. For

example, all sides are prepared with turkey(no pork), and all fresh produce is used in preparation

of their meals.

Vari’s will offer mentoring, training, and open opportunities for employment to the youth

in the community. The training will consist of them learning skills that will be utilized in order

for them to become a part of Vari’s staff. Full-time and part-time employment positions will be

offered to those who have backgrounds, and are transitioning from the societal problem of gun

violence. Cooking is a great destresser because it serves as a creative outlet,” according to

Debbie Mandel, author of “Addicted to Stress”. While stress can numb your senses, cooking

activates them. So not only will the young people be able to use this as a means to relieve stress,

they will also be able to come in contact with their creative side. Possibly unveiling a talent that

they never knew they had. Conjoining the two will display talent that they can both be proud of

as well as share with others.

Due to the problem stated above, I have thought long and hard on how I can be a part of

the solution. A solution that will somewhat ease the pain of losing my son as well as to keep his

legacy alive. Helping those young men and women who dream of being free from senseless gun

violence, and to live freely. The business will consist of profit and non-profit goals. This

opportunity gives those who have been convicted a second chance for employment, and a second

chance at redeeming themselves in society. Vari’s will be a second chance employer.

There are a host of benefits that come with mentoring our youth. Benefits such as:

• Increased high school graduation rates
• Lower high school dropout rates
• Healthier relationships and lifestyle choices
• Enhanced self esteem and self confidence
• Improved interpersonal skills
• Decreased likelihood of initiating drug and alcohol use

Mentees in the BBBS (Big brother big sisters) program have found that a decrease in

violent behavior has also been proven as a benefit opposed to youth without a mentor.

(Reference youth.gov) Each benefit that has been displayed are all common factors that our

youth in the community need to flourish and become successful. Exemplifying these benefits

will create a positive atmosphere, which will ultimately lead to a healthier living

environment/community.

Vari’s is ready to take great measures to ensure that the youth in this community have

access to “opportunity”. Our team has a genuine desire to become an asset to the west suburban

community, and are ready to make a difference in the lives of our youth.

The restaurant prepares rich luscious southern food that attracts customers from all walks

of life. The business gives young men that are in similar situations as my son a second chance.

Eating is something we do in every scenario, good, bad, happy, or sad. Food brings happiness as

well as bringing people together. Vari’s unique item on the menu is fried ribs and rib tips which

no other restaurant serves in the Chicago land area.