GREAT FALLS – The 7th annual Electric City BrewFest kicks off in Great Falls Friday night.
The event features over 30 domestic, imports and craft beers from Eagle Beverage. Twenty breweries across the state will be represented.
But for some in our community, the event is more than just a good time.
“I’m looking forward to meeting people who believe in what we do,” YWCA Great Falls executive director Sandi Filipowicz said.
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the YWCA Great Falls.
“We are one of the oldest organizations in the city of Great Falls. Our mission today is that we eliminate racism and empower women and their families. That’s a broad enough mission that we are always looking to help people in the greatest need in Great Falls,” Filipowicz said.
Since losing federal funding, the YWCA relies on fundraising and donations.
Filipowicz said participating in events such as the BrewFest is vital to the YWCA.
“It’s always been important to us that the community supports us. We were created by a group of community volunteers. This building was built by community volunteers in 1956. We’ve always had a lot of community support but now we need it even more,” Filipowicz said. “To know that the community is supporting us is really what sustains us.”
Filipowicz said their biggest need is for their Mercy Home.
“Over thirty years that has been for women and children that have been abused by domestic or sexual violence. That’s our largest program and that’s where most of our money goes and where most of the need is,” Filipowicz said.
Filipowicz added she’s excited to meet everyone who attends BrewFest and supports the YWCA.
“This isn’t easy work. The staff at the YWCA and especially at the Mercy Home work very hard to meet all of the needs of the women and children. It’s not easy work and there’s a lot trauma involved in it,” Filipowicz said. “Having this opportunity to be a part of the recipients for the BrewFest is just a wonderful opportunity.”
BrewFest kicks off at 6 p.m. at the Heritage Inn and goes until 10 p.m. Friday, April 19. Tickets are $40 at the door. The price not only includes entry to the event, but also a souvenir glass and a complimentary beer.
