Two NC State alumni have turned traditional social events into fundraising streams that are helping improve communities.
While bartending and playing music in Raleigh nightclubs, alumnus Doc Hendley envisioned using benefit wine events to raise money for clean water and sanitation projects worldwide. Now, Hendley, who was named one of the Top 10 CNN Heroes in 2009 and offered the commencement address at NC State’s December 2012 graduation, directs a nonprofit called Wine to Water that helps provide clean water access to those who lack this necessity for sustainable health.
On the local scene, alumnus Matthew Konar had an idea to build community and help local business startups. groundworkk is now a regular social event where attendees pay a $5 door fee to hear short presentations from local entrepreneurs. At the end of the night, attendees select their favorite presentation and the winning project walks away with funds raised at the event. Read more in this article from NC State’s Technician student newspaper, and check out some of the creative local projects that have competed for micro-funding.
Through wine tastings and networking gatherings, these alums are helping create more sustainable communities by improving access to much-needed resources. What can you do?