When the leaders of State Theatre and Hell’s Half Mile Events teamed up last year with Don and Ashley Sabourin to create the Drydock Beer Garden, they envisioned a more vibrant downtown and a way to support their nonprofit organizations. What they didn’t realize was just how important Drydock would become to many nonprofits in 2020.
What used to be a shipping container has been transformed into a bar, which anchors the outdoor beer garden in Unity Park in downtown Bay City. Open seasonally on weekends, Drydock began as a way to help these two organizations raise money for their programming. But, it didn’t stop there. Other nonprofits were invited to rent the facility and serve as the bar host for a weekend, keeping 100% of proceeds.
“Drydock is a place where people can come out and have a good time while helping nonprofits create another funding stream during these times,” said Mike Bacigalupo. “The community can support nonprofits the Bay City way…one beer at a time.”
In the midst of COVID and the cancellation of many events and fundraisers, Drydock has been an important source of revenue for many local nonprofits, raising more than $85,000 since it opened a year ago.
Drydock is the perfect example of what it means to collaborate, get creative, and act boldly.
2020 is the year to be bold. To offer inspiration on acts of boldness, we are sharing stories all year of those in the Bay Area who have taken action . . . of those who have dared to make a difference . . . and of those who took a risk. Know someone like this? Use our quick form to let us know so we can share their story.
