Client Happenings: Old Style Pays Tribute to Chicago's Heroes
Firefighters have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up on the West side of Cleveland many of my closest friend’s parents were second or third generation firefighters. We witnessed firsthand how they regularly put their lives on the line for the community. These brave men and women weren’t just the unknown face of a hero, they were our family. Our high school group also shares many fond memories of visiting the stations downtown and taking the fire boat out on the Cuyahoga River so we could listen to an evening summer concert.
Imagine my joy when Zapwater client, Old Style, the beer famously known as “Chicago’s beer since 1902,” decided to honor the dedication, lives and risks taken by Chicago’s Bravest with the launch of a Chicago Heroes commemorative can. The sales from these cans, which will become an instant collectable for Chicagoans and Old Style enthusiasts, alike, benefit the Ende, Menzer, Walsh and Quinn (EMWQ) Retirees’, Widows’ and Children’s Assistance Fund, a local organization which provides financial assistance annually to the neediest widows and orphans of members of the Chicago Fire Department.
EMWQ Retirees’, Widows’ and Children’s Assistance Fund works each year to identify the families and children most in need of monetary donations. The organization also provides immediate assistance to the children of an active member who passed away in the line of duty or off duty. A 22-year-old organization, the EMWQ Assistance Fund has provided more than $10 million dollars in assistance over the years through the generous support of active and retired firefighters and paramedics, the community, an annual charity softball event and more.
To celebrate the can’s launch, Zapwater hopped a ride on the Old Style branded fire truck (also playing bodyguard over the beer so it didn’t fly out the back) this Saturday, and helped the team deliver the new cans to several hundred local firefighters and their families at the 5th District CFD Softball Tournament.
Upon arrival, we had the chance to chat with some key members within the firefighter network and community. Many took several cans for personal collections and to share with others who weren’t on site. Many devoted Old Style fans were thrilled about the branded content and brought others over to the tent to learn more. Whenever our team has the opportunity to combine our work with a cause close to our hearts, it’s a reason to celebrate. Being able to work on this project will be one that I don’t soon forget.
To learn how you can get involved and more about the EMWQ organization, visit:
http://oldstylebeer.com/files/2014/08/OldStyle_WeSaluteFirefighters_2014.pdf
- Michael Corrigan, Account Supervisor