Raise a Virtual Glass: Sarah’s Circle Annual Beer Fest Fundraiser

Beer Fest is the second-biggest fundraiser of the year for Sarah’s Circle, a North Side nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness for women. But amidst a pandemic, Sarah’s Circle is one of many not-for-profit groups being forced to re-envision what fundraising and community engagement look like in a Covid-19 world.

In lieu of the usual, lively in-person event, this year’s Exceptional (Virtual) Beer Fest will take place entirely online this Thursday, Sept. 17. Last year, the event saw 200 attendees and raised $50,000. Despite the virtual setting, Sarah’s Circle hopes to match last year’s fundraising total this time around.

Meeting those goals matters because Covid-19 is impacting Sarah’s Circle and organizations like them, which anticipate resources will be strained in the coming year as the pandemic drives housing insecurity higher. This moment highlights the urgent need for immediate housing — when you’re told to shelter in place, where can you go if you are homeless?

Funds raised from Beer Fest will go toward Sarah’s Circle’s operating budget, which covers its interim housing, daytime center, and permanent supportive housing services for women who are homeless.

Devon Ritter, president of the Sarah’s Circle Associates Board, which is hosting this year’s event, says she hopes their event will still bring “the spirit” of Beer Fest into people’s homes.

Guests will be treated to music from The Exceptions of Northern Trust, trivia, a silent auction and paddle raise, and a special message from the women of Sarah’s Circle. Those in Chicago can raise a socially distant glass by buying from event partners Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar and Middle Brow; proceeds from select purchases from Sept. 10-17 will benefit Sarah’s Circle.

The Associates Board had to think creatively in soliciting donations for the live event’s auction and silent paddle raise. Normally, attendees bid on gifts that are experiential, like tickets to theater or sporting events. In light of the pandemic, Sarah’s Circle wanted to ensure its prizes remained ethical and safely socially distant, so it has pivoted to gifts from neighborhood business including local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. The full list is available ahead of the event in their online catalog.

Learn more about Sarah’s Circle programs and mission on their website here: https://www.sarahs-circle.org

This press release was produced by the Sarah's Circle. The views expressed here are the author's own.