Serving our community is what we do best.
The Norfolk Festevents Community Development Program is designed to uphold Norfolk Festevents’ mission of creating the most dynamic urban waterfront community in America through a variety of community enrichment programs that focus on empowering small local businesses, engaging local non-profit organizations, and contributing to the education and professional development of aspiring industry professionals.
“We felt it was important to work even closer with the community than we already do,” said Norfolk Festevents CEO Ted Baroody. “We wanted to offer as much support and opportunity as possible for small business & charitable organizations.”
The Norfolk Festevents Community Development Program is comprised of three initiatives: the (1) Small Business Outreach Kickstart & Grant Program, the (2) Charity Fundraising Program, and the (3) Karen Scherberger Scholarship & Internship Program.
In 2024, the Small Business Outreach Kickstart Grant was awarded to the JenDore Store. The selected business was provided complimentary booth space at the Holiday Yule Log Bonfire & Christmas Market, in addition to purchasing the special event business license, cost-free marketing exposure, and guidance in acquiring event-related documentation.
Through the Charity Fundraising Program in 2024, Festevents contributed more than $45,000 to local non-profit organizations and charities. Over the course of its 40-plus year history, Festevents has raised more than $3.5 million for local charities and organizations. The funds are raised through the sale of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at Festevents events and festivals.
Lastly, the 2024 Karen Scherberger Scholarship was awarded to Aric Thompson for his demonstrated discipline, sacrifice, responsibility, and firm commitment to Festevents. Aric worked in the Festevents’ Programming Department as a part-time employee throughout the 2024 event season. Aric is a Junior at ODU, majoring in accounting.
The Community Development Program will continue into 2025 and beyond. The application window for the 2025 Small Business Kickstarter Program is scheduled to open in February.
