Best of Clarksville raises $160K for local charities

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – 2017 marks the 22nd year of the Best of Clarksville fundraiser. This large scale, community event is organized by six local business men and women that have a passion for helping the community they live in.

“Three years ago we decided we wanted to take the Best of Clarksville and truly make it about Clarksville,” board member Courtney Berlyak said. “Since the event features Clarksville-based business and requires the efforts of countless volunteers, we should also be giving the funds to Clarksville-based organizations.”

“We look for groups that are able to impact the lives of people right here in the city of Clarksville,” board member Art Conn said.

“The Best of Clarksville has grown to the point that the funds raised are able to help multiple groups each year – and this year we were able to choose five groups,” Melanie Thompson, board member said.

The 2017 beneficiaries include Kiwanis, Rotary Club, Imagination Library, Cats R Us and The Bikers Who Care Children’s Charities.

The Best of Clarksville is unique in that the entire event is planned and coordinated by a board consisting of only volunteers.

“The Best of Clarksville relies heavily on community support, both individuals and businesses, along with in-kind donations. No one gets paid. It’s a great feeling to know that all of the profit raised goes directly to the groups each year,” Dustin Wallace, board member, said.

The Best of Clarksville has grown each year, and 2017 was no exception.

“This year, the event raised $160,173 – up over $20,000 from last year!” said Justin Grant, board member. “The board continually strives to improve the event with increased funds for the charities each year without creating additional expenses.”

Planning for the 2018 Best of Clarksville will begin in January when the board will start accepting applications from local organizations to be the beneficiaries. For details on the 2018 event, please follow Best of Clarksville on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram as well as their website at bestofclarksville.net