Local giving circle awards $10,000 to One Acre Cafe

Published 3:30 pm Monday, June 8, 2020

JOHNSON CITY— Members and friends of 100+ Tri-Cities Women Who Care collectively donated over $10,000 to One Acre Café in support of the nonprofit’s efforts to provide healthy and nutritious meals to community members, regardless of their ability to pay, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Thank you to 100+ Tri-Cities Women Who Care for the exceptional donation from all the people who have poured their heart and soul into our mission,” One Acre Café said in a statement. “Because of you, our doors remain open to feed those in need with dignity and love.”

Since its creation, 100+ Tri-Cities Women Who Care has generated over $65,000 in donations for local nonprofits. The giving circle typically holds a meeting each quarter to select an organization who will receive a $10,000 donation from the group’s members, all of whom are required to contribute to remain in good standing. Because of the public health emergency, members voted electronically this quarter, and giving was optional.

“Our 6thBig Give was an unusual event for our group,” said nonprofit coordinator Adrienne Osborne. “We know that so many in our community are facing challenges, including some of our members. We asked the ladies of 100+ Tri-Cities Women Who Care to give what they could. They gave generously. Not only did they give, but their friends and family also gave munificently. The outpour of support during these uncertain and unprecedented times is humbling. I am grateful.”

Members appreciated the opportunity to continue the group’s work, albeit with modifications. Member Amber Koonce stated, “One Acre Café is more than a restaurant to our area, and during these unique times, I was glad that we were able to donate additional funds to keep up their important mission.”

Member Beth Bartchy-Smith echoed Koonce’s sentiments. “I knew that whatever we came up with would be such a good thing for One Acre, and I’m proud we decided to give it our best shot. I think that since 100+ Women stepped out early, other organizations stepped up in ways they might not have.”

Bartchy-Smith added, “What I love about 100+ Women Who Care is that it makes it easy to participate in something significant, with other people, to benefit an organization that needs a shot in the arm. It’s great to come together as a group with people who are very diverse, very different thinkers — but all want to do good. I’m so thankful it came to Johnson City. This is a great way to give.”

Since some members are currently unable to give, the group is seeking new members. Individual members commit to donating $100 every three months; women who join as part of a two-person team commit to giving $50 each quarter. The next scheduled fundraiser will take place in August 2020.

Founder Becca Davis encouraged local women to consider joining. “It is clear that, in this moment, we need powerful and enduring change,” stated Davis. “Black lives matter. We can use our giving circle to shine light on inequalities, educate ourselves, amplify voices, and support worthwhile causes. Our voices are louder together — and like our collective giving impact, necessary now more than ever.”

Women who are interested in more information or who would like to join are encouraged to visit the group’s website, www.tricitieswomenwhocare.com.