Tuesday’s celebration of 93-year-old beloved Balducci’s cashier Charlotte — and the presentation of a $28,950 check, donated by generations of grateful customers — was one of Westport’s best stories of the year. (If you missed it, click here to read.)
But Charlotte was not the only star of the day.
The idea came from — and was executed by — Dan Frank. He knows, and loves, Charlotte through his job as an Instacart shopper.
In just 4 days he posted it on social media, helped it spread, coordinated with Balducci’s managers, arranged for a check, and ensured that a large crowd was on hand (on one of the busiest days of the year) to honor and toast Charlotte.
Charlotte, with Dan and her check at Balducci’s. (Photo/Ryan Allen)
So who is Dan Frank?
A Weston High School graduate, he studied finance and entrepreneurship at Syracuse University. He earned a master’s in education from the University of Minnesota, then studied sports broadcasting at Sacred Heart.
Sports is his true love. He was a lead agent at a player management firm and a play-by-play announcer for the University of New Haven.
His favorite gig was at his alma mater, Weston High. There, he did a number of jobs for the athletics department. He was best known for creating highlight videos of the previous day’s games and matches. Students and staff loved them, and him.
Dan Frank, at work.
Christine Marra — the woman who told me about Dan Frank’s gift project for Charlotte — did not know him.
Before contacting me, she checked him out. The comments from his Facebook friends — about his fundraising and other activities — assured her that Dan was not only legit, but loved.
She helped him get one of those big fake photo-op check at the Staples store. He lives 5 minutes away, and met her there.
As soon as he walked in, someone high-fived him. Christine realized Dan is nearly as admired as Charlotte.
Dan Frank, at the Balducci’s ceremony. (Photo/Ryan Allen)
Dan’s brief speech at the Balducci’s ceremony was heartfelt and humble.
“I come here for work several days a week,” he said.
“I come in thinking about my own needs. But every interaction with you lifts me up. You make every day better.”
Growing emotional, he continued, “Charlotte, you have an extraordinary impact on people. You restore my faith in humanity.”
He handed her a large copy of the large check, “with love and gratitude.” Giving, he concluded is “the best way to give back.”
Speaking of giving: “06880” can give back to Dan Frank, too.
After leaving Weston High, he spent a couple of years in Aruba. Instacart is not his career goal. He’s trying now to get back into the field he loves.
Dan Frank and friend.
Sports media, sports marketing, sports broadcasting — that’s where he wants to be.
Dan’s work this week raising nearly $30,000 for a cashier who inspires him shows his energy, commitment, skills and savvy.
It’s time for one more Christmas miracle. If there is an “06880” reader out there who can hire Dan for a sports position — or has a lead on one that might align with his background — click “Comments” below. Or email 06880blog@gmail. com.
Dan Frank paid it forward. Let’s keep the good work going!
BOXING DAY BONUS: Click below for Josh Allen’s video, with Dan and Charlotte from Tuesday’s ceremony.
