We get involved with events of all kinds in the Mahoning Valley. We believe that in order to make a difference in the community you have to be active in that community. As locally owned and independent brokerage for over 42 years in the Mahoning Valley, not only does all of the money we make stay here in the Valley, but all of our efforts towards growing our community is localized as well. That’s why we were so excited to be the presenting partner of the 10th annual Purple Cat and Golden Strings Radio Beer and Wine Taste on March 9th at the Maronite Center in Youngstown. This event has been one of the largest fundraisers for these groups who support the development of opportunities for adults with disabilities. By getting involved, you know we were aiming at making it better!
But how do improve upon an event that drives 400 plus people to it every year?
Well, for starters, we moved the event to a larger location, capable of holding the 600+ attendees we had at this year’s event. Yeah…you read that correctly…600+ ATTENDEES!
The evening was filled with fun, food and over 40 varieties of home made beer and wine along with hot peppers for attendees to enjoy. But there was so much more to do at the event which helped raise over $20,000 for these two charities.
One of our patriarchs, John Burgan, sponsored a band called, Ovation, which had people dancing all night long. One of the fastest growing brands, other than ourselves, in the area, Penguin City Beer, sponsored the bar in case attendees didn’t find one of the home made brews or vinos to their liking. Blue Wolf Events catered the event with delectable appetizers and dishes. But an event like this does not happen without the support of local sponsors.
More than dozen sponsors were a part of making this night possible, as well as over 50 auction items for guests to bid on and in, including a select wine pull and a handful of high end items included in an auction. While the event was a great time for everyone who attended, it was more amazing to see the outpouring of support for two organizations who dedicate themselves to making a positive difference in the lives of people in the area.
The Purple Cat was founded in 2003 to offer day-program alternatives for adults. Clients participate in a wide range of vocational functions, creative projects and classes that develop daily-living skills. The goal is to prompt each individual to achieve his or her potential. The Purple Cat motto is: “Work hard, be kind and have fun.” All three of those were done this past weekend at the event.
One of the efforts for individuals is Golden String Radio, a unique station in that adults with disabilities are operating the station. They serve as DJs, clerical staff, creative directors, and technical support. You can listen to Golden String radio LIVE Monday through Friday from 9am-9pm by streaming it at www.GoldenStringRadio.org. We were hoping to have them do the music but they deserved a night off and to have fun too.
As we sat back and looked at all that our community was able to accomplish for this event, we were proud to have been able to make this year’s event not just better, but the best it has ever been. Next years event is already in motion and we can’t wait to see how we can top it again next year.
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