48. COVID-19 Response Story: How a Group of Restaurateurs Raised & Gifted $4M for Their Frontline Workers - Kathryn Lott and Lindsey Brown
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Overview
Meet the Southern Smoke Foundation gals. You're about to find out what happens when a community of chefs, restaurateurs, foodies and Do Gooders get together in the name of helping their own. This mighty nonprofit has stepped in during numerous crises to uplift the food industry. Even during a pandemic, they continue to shine by fundraising and distributing more than $4 million to nearly 2,000 people. Tune in to get some insight on how COVID is affecting our favorite restaurants/beverage businesses and how you can help.
Today’s Guest
Lindsey Brown, Co-Founder and Media Relations Director, Southern Smoke Foundation
Kathryn Lott, Executive Director, Southern Smoke Foundation
“A bunch of cooks, communications professionals, and a fundraiser raised $5 million in 5 years. We didn’t know where it would take us when we started, and that’s the beauty of it.”
The history and mission of Southern Smoke Foundation
The impact of Southern Smoke following Hurricane Harvey
Provided over $4 million for frontline workers in the restaurant industry during the COVID-19 pandemic
Leveraging strategic, mission based partnerships during times of crisis to take your mission further
Danny’s story
Kathryn’s One Good Thing: Go back to your why. This will keep everything centered and grounded.
Lindsey’s One Good Thing: Don’t underestimate yourself and the people around you.
Becky’s One Good Thing: Support your local restaurants, and be generous with your tips if you are able
Powerful Quotes:
“The restaurant industry is so proud. Very few people will admit that they need help.” -Kathryn
“We were able to grant $501,000 to 139 families during Hurricane Harvey. We realized that our industry didn’t have a safety net and this was necessary year round.” -Lindsey
“This industry is a catch all for almost everyone, and serves as a safety net for anyone. We are seeing an influx of people who are trying to find where that next safety net is.” -Kathryn
“We’ve partnered with a lot of organizations that knew they didn’t have they time or money to put together a crisis plan.” -Kathryn
“The message spread because of relationships.” -Lindsey
“A huge part was creating precious third party fundraisers with strategic partners. The ultimate message to me, as a fundraiser, is keep the integrity of both organizations, and come together in a way that makes sense.” -Kathryn
“All of the chefs say they will continue to be involved with Southern Smoke because they know the work they did saved someone.” -Lindsey
“I keep thinking about the word hospitality. This unreal level of hospitality for complete strangers is so moving.” -Jon
“There is a mission why you have a mission statement. Go back to your why. Every decision I make for our organization is so clean because of this.” -Kathryn
“A bunch of cooks, communications professionals, and a fundraiser raised $5 million in 5 years. We didn’t know where it would take us when we started, and that’s the beauty of it.” -Lindsey
