Nonprofits Benefit from Art and Wine Festival

The may have been a chance for locals to eat, drink and shop, but it was also an opportunity for several nonprofit organizations to raise money and get publicity.

The (CHAC) manned their volunteers at the parking lots of private bussinesses–like and –which let CHAC use them for free. The organization raised $7,800 by charging visitors a $5 fee, and the city let CHAC keep all the proceeds, said associate director and chief financial officer Linda Miller. 

Miller, who has worked for CHAC for over two decades, said CHAC has run the lots at the Art and Wine Festival for about 10 years through a long-time understanding with the city. She also added that many visitors know about CHAC and donate more than $5. 

"It makes volunteering at these lots more rewarding," she said.

Another nonprofit, the Friends of Stevens Creek Trail, sought exposure and wanted to educate people about the trail, which is currently five miles long, said board member John Brazil.

"A lot of people are looking for access points," added Kathy Bettman, a board member for the group.

Members are currently working with Los Altos, Cupertino, Mountain View and Sunnyvale to continue expanding the trail. 

KMVT15, the local community TV station for Mountain View, Cupertino, and Los Altos, also had a booth. The station, which had only volunteers at the event, helped cover the festival in exchange for publicity, said executive director Shelley Wolfe. Volunteers gain hosting, camera, and talent experience along the way.