OCALA, FL. (352 Today) — Three Marion County nonprofit organizations received a major boost this week as organizers of the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival presented a $160,000 donation raised during the 2025 event.
During a check presentation held Wednesday, Aug. 20 at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, proceeds from the spring festival were distributed to Interfaith Emergency Services, the Marion County Literacy Council, and the Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection. Each organization will receive an equal share to support programs that assist vulnerable populations across the community.
The Brick City Beer and Wine Festival, now in its 11th year, is hosted annually by the Rotary Clubs of Ocala and draws hundreds of attendees from across North Central Florida. This year’s festival featured more than 100 craft beer and wine selections, food trucks, and live entertainment, with all proceeds benefiting local charities.
Karla Greenway, CEO of Interfaith Emergency Services said, “The Brick City Beer & Wine Festival is truly a symbol of how working together yields greater rewards. It is an honor to be a part of this event with the two other charities, the Rotary Club and WindFM. We could not accomplish this alone and this $53,000 is going to help many households that are struggling to make ends meet. We at Interfaith feel so blessed!”
Dawn Westgate, Executive Director of The Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection, said “Kimberly’s Center is deeply grateful for the incredible team that works tirelessly behind the scenes to make the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival such a fun, successful event. Thanks to their efforts, the festival raises vital funds to support three local nonprofits dedicated to caring for our community’s most vulnerable.”
“There is something so special about events where advocates and allies raise critical funds to support the work of local nonprofits” said R.J. Jenkins, who sits on the Board of the Marion County Literacy Council. “Every dollar raised by community members is a double gift; it is a gift of financial support, of course, but it is also a gift of time – time that we would have to spend raising that dollar that we can now invest in delivering life-changing services. The power of this kind of support is truly profound.”
“It’s amazing to see a great group of people come together to promote good will within our community. I am proud and humbled to be a part of this event from its inception. Thank you to all involved” said James Clardy, Brick City Beer and Wine Festival Executive Committee member.
Plans are already underway for the 2026 Brick City Beer and Wine Festival, which organizers hope will exceed this year’s fundraising total.