When you’re young, sometimes it’s hard to spend money on those in need when you are in need yourself. When there is some spending room, if it’s not a substantial amount, giving back may also seem like a waste of precious dough. What’s this $20 going to do? I guess I’ll go spend it on a couple of drinks with my friends.
Hoping to change that mindset, one trendy nightspot in New York City decided that spending a little extra money to hang out with friends, and contributing to a worthy cause, should be one in the same. Sounds like a win-win!
Seeing a need for an appropriate way for young people in their 20s to give back without breaking the bank, owners Jason LaGarenne and Gunther Bilali of The Anchor in New York City’s West SoHo neighborhood, found a way to facilitate the fundraising process while offering a fun, cool, unpretentious environment.
“We noticed there weren’t many avenues for younger people to help out the charity they believe in,” said LaGarenne. The majority of charity events are black tie galas and big-ticket dinners, which most younger people can’t afford. “It’s not really apathy, there’s just a lack of opportunities for the under-30 set to give back,” he continued.
So far the idea has caught on with a great response. The bar recently put on a birthday party/benefit for UNICEF, raising nearly $3,000 to help children in Haiti. Tonight (Friday), a young Vanderbilt University graduate will throw a fundraising party aiding the American Red Cross and their efforts to help Nashville rise above the flood damage.
Young People Want to Change the World
The first benefit was co-hosted by Danielle Abraham and Casey Rotter (above right). Turning 27 within a week of each other, they decided to hold a UNICEF fundraiser benefiting children in Haiti as a combined birthday party. In light of turning 27, the ladies asked for a donation of $27 from each of their guests.
“I had just returned from a trip to Guatemala (in mid February) with UNICEF about two weeks before my birthday and was so motivated upon my return, I wanted to do something to give back immediately,” said Abraham. “I decided to throw a benefit party because it seemed like a no-brainer to leverage my birthday for a good cause and help others in need.”
Both Abraham and Rotter are members of UNICEF’s Next Generation, a group of young professionals who “commit their time, voice, financial resources and energy to improve the lives of children around the world,” explained Abraham. The group works toward a “belief in zero,” striving to eliminate the number of children dying of preventable diseases from 24,000 per day to none. Abraham and Rotter distributed pins and UNICEF fact cards on the guests’ tables so they could learn more about the cause they were supporting.
The Anchor
In addition to giving back to an important and admirable cause, the guests were also looking for a good time. The Anchor is a popular bar for celebrities (Kanye West, Kirsten Dunst and Natalie Portman amongst others) and trendy locals. Typically, it would be difficult to secure such a space, especially without breaking the bank. The owners, however, not only provided the space free of charge, but also secured the liquor sponsors so every last cent could be put toward the cause.
“We have a long history with different charities so we’ll give the venue and help secure the liquor and that allows them to do the events cheaper,” said LaGarenne. Liquor companies are allowed to donate alcohol to charitable organizations, he explained. With a liquor sponsor, alcohol from that company will be free of charge, truly allowing guests to have a good time while contributing their money to the cause.
“The whole thing happened pretty last minute, and the Anchor was amazing about helping to secure some liquor sponsors, as well as a DJ for the party and help coordinate other logistics,” said Abraham. “All my friends and family had fun at the party and thought it was a great idea as an alternative to what people typically do to celebrate their birthdays.”
The Anchor is determined to keep helping anyone who wants to help others. They also hope to inspire other owners to do the same. “We hope that other bars and clubs in the city, and beyond, will follow our lead and help out doing good for charities, and show that we’re not all bad guys in the nightlife industry,” said LaGarenne.
Want to host a party?
The Anchor welcomes inquires from young folks who are interested in hosting a benefit party. Speak with LaGarenne or one of the event staff. Contact information is available on their website.
Photo courtesy of Danielle Abraham, photo courtesy of Susan Blond Inc.