News
AFE’s Fill the Vase Fundraiser!
September 23, 2019
The American Floral Endowment, the national organization that funds floral research, scholarships, grants, and internships, kicked off its 2019 fall fundraiser, “Fill the Vase,” at their 43rd Annual Fundraising and Recognition Dinner on September 19.
Nearing their 60th year, the Endowment provides practical solutions to tough industry challenges through research and programs that bring top talent to the floral industry. AFE-funded programs are the result of industry members coming together to provide for a stronger industry.
“That’s the concept behind AFE’s ‘Fill the Vase’ campaign,” said AFE Public Relations and Development Chairman, Ken Young of Phoenix Flower Shops. “Everyone loves to see an arrangement of beautiful flowers — seeing each flower come together to make something beautiful. Without individual flowers, there can’t be a beautiful arrangement.”
During the Fundraising and Recognition Dinner, every attendee received a single rose. Each rose represented the person filling the seat — a member of the floral industry. AFE asked that the industry come together to “Fill the Vase” by making a small commitment to floral industry programs through AFE. By doing this, they will help provide programs and create something beautiful!
After each person made their donation pledge, they placed their rose in the vase on their table to create an amazing arrangement!
“If everyone — and every rose came together to provide support for the industry, imagine the programs and resources that could be developed,” said Jim Daly, AFE Chairman.
Tim Noble, President of Hortica Insurance announced a gift match for the first $5,000 donated as a part of the dinner contributions! Dr. Marvin Miller of Ball Horticultural Company quickly followed suit on behalf of Ball to create an additional $6,000 gift match from their company. A huge thank you to Hortica and Ball!
Both matches were reached and in total, over $41,000 was committed as a part of the Fill the Vase campaign in just one night!
Dinner attendees got this campaign started. Now it’s time to get the full industry involved! An annual pledge from industry organizations does add up and will make a difference.
The Endowment provides research and programs that help with the future of our industry. By supporting these programs with a $10 or $25 annual contribution, you will make a difference to help fill the vase and provide for the future of the floral industry.
Add your name or company name to the list of visionary leaders already supporting AFE. Visit endowment.org/donate to make your donation or pledge and Help us Fill the Vase!
