A LETTER FROM CLARENCE OTIS, JR., CEO
In 1968 when Bill Darden, our founder and namesake, opened the first Red Lobster
in Lakeland, Florida, corporate responsibility wasn’t a term that was heard often.
But, even before the concept had a name or became a part of business school curriculums,
Bill understood and lived the principles of good corporate citizenship. He
didn’t spend a lot of time talking about making a difference, he just did it. Through
his community activity and the way he treated his employees, suppliers and guests,
he set the tone for a spirit of volunteerism, philanthropy and ethical business practices
that are still defining characteristics of Darden Restaurants today.
In particular, we support programs and organizations that promote diversity, sustainability,
respect, fairness and inclusiveness – we believe that solving civic problems
requires diverse viewpoints and the commitment and participation of everyone
in the community. We believe in targeted, innovative community involvement.
We are as passionate about being a good corporate citizen and community leader as
we are about giving our guests an extraordinary dining experience. We look forward
to building on our tradition of caring, giving and doing.
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