As the weather warms, Westport heads into gala/benefit/fundraiser season.
Every spring, non-profits host events to fill their coffers. They take many forms — but they nearly always include some kind of auction, and often a program book.
Over and over, year after year, the same folks get asked to help: local merchants.
Time and again, they come through.
National brands, chain stores, the big boys who can more easily afford it — they seldom do.
“It’s against corporate policy,” they say.
Or: “We have to go through headquarters. There’s not enough time.”
Meanwhile, the mom-and-pops — struggling already against those same competitors, and online shops — donate merchandise for auctions and swag bags. They give gift certificates. They write checks for program ads, knowing full well that few folks ever open the booklet.
Savvy + Grace is one of many local merchants that donate whenever they’re asked.
Our local merchants, restaurants and services are hit up for everything.
They say yes for 3 reasons: These are their customers. They want to help. And they feel part of the community.
This week — as we get ready for gala/benefit/fundraiser season — they are our Unsung Heroes of the week.
Be sure to thank them for their generosity.
(Do you know an Unsung Hero? Email 06880blog@gmail.com!)