As part of its presence at IBS 2018, the International Builders’ Show, Fine Homebuilding held a #KeepCraftAlive Scholarship Fundraising Event, on Wednesday, Jan. 10, from 7-9 pm at The Pub Orlando. It was a fun evening of fundraising, networking, and giveaways from brands who recognize the spirit of our mission. A ticket to the event cost $35-$50, and Fine Homebuilding is donating 100% of the event ticket sale proceeds to the #KeepCraftAlive Scholarship Fund to support the next generation of craftsmen, and is also matching donations dollar-for-dollar.
The event attracted 219 people who registered and 192 who attended. They raised $7,847, which Fine Homebuilding is matching to bring the total over $15,000!
The evening included networking with Fine Homebuilding Editors and Ambassadors, a self-serve Craft Beer Tap Wall, heavy appetizers, swagbags, and cool product giveaways!
According to FHB editorial director Rob Yagid, “The turnout for our #KeepCraftAlive event in Orlando was overwhelming. The event was packed with builders, architects, editors, brand representatives, television and YouTube personalities, and fans of Fine Homebuilding and of building. It was a proud moment, to see so many people turn out in support of the #KeepCraftAlive initiative. The $15,000 we raised at this event is going to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those passionate about pursuing careers in home building. For that, everyone who attended donated and continues to support this cause gets my deepest thanks.”
The event was also supported by co-host Diamondback Toolbelts and by premier sponsor Huber Engineered Woods. Diamondback’s Chief Operating Officer Connor Crook said, “Diamondback is proud to be part of the #KeepCraftAlive movement and the growing community of like-minded tradespeople who want to build the best, and build it in America.”
Premier sponsor Huber Engineered Woods’ Doug Asana, VP of Sales & Marketing, shared, “Fine Homebuilding is making powerful moves to bring education and support to construction trades through the #KeepCraftAlive movement. We are proud partners and participants in this forward-thinking, collaborative community. This is the perfect group to mobilize support for Skills USA, to advocate continued labor reinforcement for our industry. We applaud Fine Homebuilding and the #KeepCraftAlive community for their leadership.”
“For over 35 years, Fine Homebuilding has created a space where construction professionals can feel they are face-to-face with mentors who share their commitment to the preservation of craftsmanship and the advancement of home performance – our goal at IBS 2018 is to bring that virtual experience to reality – meet face-to-face with the professionals we’ve nurtured throughout their careers, to celebrate their accomplishments and commitment to quality, and to bring awareness and raise funds for our #KeepCraftAlive scholarship program to support those who want to pursue a path in the trades”, said Renee Jordan, Senior Vice President & Group Publisher for Home & Construction at Taunton Press.
