Zacharias supports SCH with BOB fundraisers

When Aaron Zacharias was approached by one of his employees about hosting a fundraiser for Swedish Covenant Hospital nearly 11 years ago, Aaron agreed with one caveat – to make it fun. Aaron, managing partner at Bar on Buena, collaborated with the Swedish Covenant Hospital Associates’ Board to create the Bar on Buena Beer Tasting Fundraiser.

“We wanted to create an intimate event that brought in experts from our suppliers to benefit a great cause,” Aaron said.

At the time, beer-tasting events were few and far between. But, as the local craft beer landscape has changed, and more events crowd the market, Aaron has tweaked the event to successfully help it grow. Changes include expanding the local breweries participating, to introducing whiskey and cocktails. As a result, the event continues to bring in a crowd of young professionals from the local community, as well as Swedish Covenant Hospital employees.

In addition to offering tastings, suppliers typically donate prizes such as bicycles, a travel refrigerator, and gift baskets for the raffle, which raises $1,000 each year.

Aaron believes it is important to give back. He lives in the neighborhood, and he and his wife use Swedish Covenant Hospital for their healthcare.

“I like what Swedish does and the event is tangible and direct way to give back to a local organization,” Aaron said.

This year’s event, held in September, raised more than $3,500 for the Violence Prevention Program at Swedish Covenant Hospital.

“We are so excited to be celebrating our 10th year at Bar on Buena,” said Kayleigh Hamre, Associates’ Board officer and long-standing member said. “Thank you Aaron and the Bar on Buena team for the unconditional support. Bar on Buena generously shared their space, amazing staff, delicious food, and killer raffle gifts with the Associates' Board for the past 10 years allowing us to host such a rewarding and successful event year after year.”

The Swedish Covenant Hospital Associates’ Board is a group of young professionals who raise funds, increase public awareness and perform community service on behalf of SCH. They hold fundraising events throughout the year, including Bar on Buena Beer Tasting Fundraiser and a Bags Tournament.

To learn more about the Swedish Covenant Hospital Associates’ Board or to join, click here, or contact the Foundation at foundation@swedishcovenant.org or 773.293.5121.