September 4, 2024
The Summit Federal Credit Union Taste of Syracuse, Central New York’s biggest food and music festival, welcomed an estimated 200,000 people over two days this past June. Produced by Galaxy Media, the festival featured hundreds of eateries and food trucks and non-stop music with over 30 bands including The Zack Brown Tribute Band and Hanson. In addition to welcoming large crowds steadily throughout the festival, over $22,500 was collected for local charities.
Representatives from The Summit and Tops Friendly Markets gathered Wednesday, September 4th at Clinton Square in Downtown Syracuse to present a check for $11,308.36 each to the two festival beneficiaries: Griffin’s Guardians, and Paige’s Butterfly Run. Funds collected were a joint effort between The Summit Federal Credit Union and Tops Friendly Markets, Taste of Syracuse sponsors. 100% of the funds collected from both organizations were donated to the two beneficiaries. Since 2017, The Summit and Tops Friendly Markets have helped to raise nearly $150,000 for Central New York charities.
“These two organizations do so much to make a difference in the lives of young cancer patients and their families in Central New York,” said Twanda Christensen, Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement for The Summit. “We know that the funds raised at our tent during the Taste of Syracuse and proceeds from our ATMs at the festival will help these two groups to further their missions and honor the lives and legacies of the children for which they are named.”
“Every year, we are overwhelmed by the generosity of our community and grateful for their willingness to give back to those in need. Being able to shine a light on these two amazing organizations, who do so much for our neighbors each and every day, while helping to raise much-needed funds for their cause, truly embodies our Neighbors Helping Neighbors philosophy,” said Kathleen Allen, Senior Manager of Community Relations for Tops Friendly Markets.
“We can’t thank our partners enough for their tremendous support of the festival and for their generosity in regard to giving back to local charities,” said Galaxy Events Chief Operating Officer Carrie Wojtaszek. “We’re looking forward to next year!”
Attached photo L to R: Chris Arnold, Board President, Paige’s Butterfly Run;Twanda Christensen, VP of Marketing and Community Engagement, The Summit; Jennifer Huntley, Development Director, Paige’s Butterfly Run; Erin Engle, Founder, Griffin’s Guardians; Christin Vincent, Syracuse Regional Director, The Summit; Kathleen Allen, Senior Manager of Community Relations, TOPS Friendly Markets; Carrie Wojtaszek, COO, Galaxy Events