Marion fundraiser nearly doubles goal, continues effort - WSIL TV

MARION (WSIL) -- In the span of just two weeks, the community of Marion rallied behind a fundraising event called "Marion United" and raised nearly double of their original goal.

In a live-stream event, which worked much like a telethon, local musicians entertained hundreds while helping to raise grant money for small businesses struggling due to COVID-19.

"We raised almost $200,000 in about a week-and-a-half," said Crown Brew co-owners Jared Gravatt. He and his business partner Joshua Benitone came up with the idea for the event. "It was just absolutely amazing to see the entire community come together with their resources, connections, and businesses just start donating to the cause - it was absolutely incredible." Working with Southern Illinois Community Foundation, Marion United is helping create grants for small businesses that may be left out of the stimulus package.

"If you're a local Marion business that has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, you most likely are eligible for this grant," said Gravatt, adding that those looking to apply must do so by April 10th.

"There's a comment section on the live stream," said Gravatt, describing how the event brought the community together, online, to share a message of hope and encouragement. "People are commenting, liking; it was amazing. The energy was so intense that whole night, either live stream or in the building itself."

Gravatt adds that Marion United will continue to collect funds for struggling small businesses, and they also envision the new organization to become an ongoing effort to support the community and its growth.

Grant Guidelines

• Applications are due April 10th, 2020
• Grants are for locally owned Small Business’s in Marion, IL
• Grants will be awarded to Small Business’s being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic
• Submission of grant application does not guarantee approval
• A Small Business is defined as having less than 150 employees

To apply, visit Marion-United.net and scroll to the 'Apply Now' link.

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Marion fundraiser nearly doubles goal, continues effort - WSIL TV
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