Phil’s BBQ of San Diego recently hosted a tailgate party in the tailgate lot at PETCO Park to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Operation Bigs program, which offers support to children of military families through one-to-one mentoring. The event, “Phil’s Big BBQ at the Ballpark,” raised $38,973.

To raise funds and support for the cause, Phil’s BBQ sold thousands of tickets for $20 each that included a Phil’s BBQ meal and a ticket to watch the Padres take on the Philadelphia Phillies at PETCO Park. Phil’s donated all the food and service for the event so that every dollar raised could be provided to the charity. Phil’s BBQ also donated an additional 1,000 tickets to Big Brothers Big Sisters for kids and their sponsors to attend the game and tailgate party.

“We are so proud of the support our community has shown for this event,” owner Phil Pace said while serving up his BBQ to the crowd. “We set out with a goal to raise awareness and support for Operation Bigs and this has truly exceeded my expectations. I must thank my crew and the loyal customers for making this day such a success.”

Additionally, Phil’s BBQ is sponsoring the Padres “Game Ball Delivery” for the 2009 season where one child at every home game will have the memorable opportunity to go down on the field to deliver the game ball to the pitcher’s mound. Phil’s BBQ has been selecting children from the charity partner, customers, employees, and e-mail club to participate in this opportunity.

“On behalf of the Marine and Navy families, whose children are served by Big Brothers Big Sisters, we thank Phil Pace and all of his employees who made this event possible. Not only did Phil’s provide dinner and the Padres game to 1,000 children, they also raised over $38,000 to help Big Brothers Big Sisters serve even more military kids,” said Paul Palmer, CEO/President of Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego County.