Fireside Harvesting Nonprofit Organization Event

[kurtford]

I got this email from Fireside winery that could help out the club. For Every ton of grapes the club picks the club gets $180. I was going to help volunteer last year but had things going on when they did it. I realize this is kinda last minute notice to organize but it's a thought for next year if they do it again like this. I'll try and keep an eye out for other events that that could be like this that could help the club buy a 6 tap picnic tap, more merchandise, couple more banners, etc.

If I remember correctly the first harvest the Winehouse was about a 250 pounds or more and they really don't have that many vines. (picture below)

F I R E S I D E W I N E R Y
2010 Grape Harvest
Harvesting for Charity
It's hard to believe that its that time of year again to start planning for the fall grape harvest. Grape varieties were tested for sugar and acidity recently and the results show the grapes will be ready to harvest in just a few short weeks. That being said, we're looking for pickers and if you are part of a charitable organization or non-profit group that is looking for a unique fund-raising opportunity please read on.

Last year Fireside Winery opened up their Brickyard Hill vineyard to over a dozen non-profit groups to help with the grape harvest. In exchange for the volunteers time, Fireside Winery provided each group a monetary donation based on the tonage harvested by the group.

Based on the feedback received from last years volunteers, grape harvesting is fun, educational and different way to fund raise. If this sounds like something your group would be interested in doing, please review the guidelines below.

Harvest Times: 7AM-12:30PM

Possible 2010 Harvest Dates
August 28, 29
September 4, 5, 6
September 11, 12
September 25, 26
October 2, 3
Group Eligibility and Selection Process

Groups will be selected upon a first come first serve basis but are not guaranteed a date. Since we cannot say exactly when different varieties will ripen and unfortunately, Mother Nature doesn't provide a dependable 1 month forecast, your group will placed "on call" for the date you select.

Groups may choose the date(s) they are available to harvest within the possible harvest dates and if all the conditions are right for harvesting on the chosen day, your group will be called in to harvest. We will call your group the day before your selected harvest date to inform you if you will or will not be harvesting the following day.

Guidelines for your group to qualify for harvesting include:

1. Providing a Determination Letter proving non-profit status or another formal letter/bank statement confirming non-profit standing
2. Returned and completed Harvest agreement must be signed by a group leader
3. At least 10 members (max 40) must participate on the day of the harvest
4. Each group member must sign and return a Waiver of Liability/Hold Harmless Harvest Waiver before harvesting.
5. Harvest volunteers must be 14 years or older

If you are part of a group interested in participating in the grape harvest, please call or email Cassie Bott at (319) 662-4222 or cassie@firesidewinery.com

Fruits of Your Labor
So what's in it for you? Besides a great time taking in natures beauty, getting to know your picking partner and all you can eat grapes, each member of your group will be provided a lunch and your non-profit group will be paid $180 per ton of grapes harvested.

We hope to you and your charitable organization will considering helping us with our 2010 Grape Harvest.

Here's to a bountiful and safe harvest. Cheers!

[Matt F]

Cedar Ridge is also looking for pickers and pays $0.10/lbs.

[kurtford]

Chelsea and I are interested in doing either one if we want to get a group together for either one.