When Richmond Rallies

When Richmond rallies there can be no mistaking it. This is a community that comes together quickly to inspire and motivate. Such was the case following the fire that condemned the Sub Rosa Bakery building in Church Hill, which was also home to three tenants above the bakery.

When news of the fire broke, Twitter lit up with condolences and offers of support from all over Greater Richmond. Everyone knew how long and hard Evrim and Evin Dogu worked to realize their dream, and their neighbors and fellow business owners were compelled to help get them back up and running as soon as possible.
 In a little over a week, Sub Rosa’s extended family were able to raise almost $25,000 to get the building on the road to recovery.
Dad and baby: In a little over a week, Sub Rosa’s extended family were able to raise almost $25,000 to get the building on the road to recovery.

Victoria Deroche of Pizza Tonight lead the charge, utilizing the fundraising capabilities of RVA Street Foodies and the hospitable atmosphere at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery to create a benefit event, featuring live music, a full mobile food court, live music and a raffle boasting prizes from about 50 local businesses. As news of the benefit spread, offers to contribute to the raffle and match RVA Street Foodies contributions poured in from businesses like Need Supply, Big Secret, Lamplighter Roasting Co, Ellwood Thompson’s, Olli Salumeria, and many more.
All the while, there was also an Indiegogo funding campaign, launched by Sub Rosa neighbor Corey Lane that generated almost $16,000 as well as a potluck-style dinner at The Roosevelt, organized by Kendra Feather with contributions from local businesses like Ellie Basch/Mise en Place, Rachel Zell, WPA Bakery, Azizas, Secco, Owen from Magpie, Heritage, Comfort/Pasture, Randy Doetzer (Julep’s, Mint), and Dutch and Co.

In a little over a week, Sub Rosa’s extended family were able to raise almost $25,000 to get the building on the road to recovery and help the building’s tenants find new homes and start rebuilding their lives. It was clear evidence that when disaster strikes in Richmond, Richmond strikes back.

Photos by Marc Cheatham

CategoriesCommunity Builders, General, Live, NewsTagged
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Grid is a solutions-oriented news platform that celebrates makers, storytellers, and community builders. Our goal is to share stories about people inspired by a purpose beyond themselves. We are interested in hard work, humility, authenticity, and stewardship. And most of all, people who roll up their sleeves and push Richmond forward.