The Fernie Brewing Company raises a glass to local groups and organizations by helping them out financially through its “Cheers to Charity” fundraising event.
The brewery’s general manager, Lenka Hawrys, said all proceeds from the samples of beer poured goes to a charity the employees choose.
This time around, Fernie’s own Shred Kelly, who has a unique folk-stoke musical style, is the recipient of the six-week long fundraiser.
“I think they are awesome ambassadors for the Town of Fernie,” Hawrys said. “And let’s face it, you’re not making any money until you’re a big artist.”
Money donated can go towards the cost of touring, she said.
“They’ve been really big supporters to Fernie Brewing, and I think they’re really good for the town, really good for the brand of Fernie and we love them.”
The band was on hand at the brewery on Aug. 5, serenading the crowd of more than 60 people.
Those in attendance enjoyed sampling beer, eating from the Chopstick Truck set up in the brewery’s parking lot and listening to fantastic tunes.
“We thought it was a good way to help the community and donate funds to the community, and instead of donating to everyone, giving one chunk of money to one foundation or organization,” Hawrys said, adding so far, more than $1,800 has been raised for the band.
The last organization to receive funds from “Cheers to Charity” was the Elk Valley Hospice, which received close to $2,000 in donations.
** For more pictures and a video, check out the Free Press Facebook page **