During these unnerving and uncertain times, we’ve watched countless businesses shutter their doors to try and weather the storm that is COVID-19.
Local concert venues have watched their calendars clear and their employees go home, with no shows to watch or drinks to serve. In order to lighten the load of employees affected by the lack of work at Jammin Java in Vienna and Union Stage in Washington, DC, the company moved to start a GoFundMe page on March 17, in an email newsletter.
“We have always said that our staff is the ‘secret sauce’ that sets our clubs apart,” wrote Luke, Jonathan and Daniel Brindley on the GoFundMe page. “We are now asking the Jammin Java and Union Stage community to ensure our staff has a job to come back to after this terrible pandemic passes.”
Three days later, after only a handful of shares on social media, and the aforementioned email announcement, the fundraiser has raised nearly $15,000 out of its $20,000 goal, with 296 donors. As of publication, the total reached $14,660.
According to the page, every cent goes back to the staff, and the founder/owners will be matching every donation up to $20,000 to ensure their employees are well taken care of during the both venues hiatus.
Comments on the page read, “We’ve spent so many happy hours at Jammin Java, giving a bit back to its wonderful staff is the least we can do. Be well all,” and, “Great people, great venue. Hope you’re back in business very soon!” // Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave E., Vienna and Union Stage: 740 Water St. SW, Washington, DC
Looking for things to do at home while practicing social distancing? Subscribe to our Things to Do newsletter.
