By Staff Writer Dave Domezik
MONTEVALLORachel Phillips had no idea that her goal of assisting Montevallo’s artistic community would become a reality in just one month. Meri Moon’s owner, however, has already formally signed a contract for a downtown building that will soon house the Made in Montevallo Foundation, a brand-new nonprofit organization created to support the community that assisted her in starting over.
Phillips stated, “This town took care of me.” They still turn up and look after me, and I appreciate that they do it for one another.
The Made in Montevallo Foundation will give local makers, students, small business owners, and entrepreneurs—what Phillips refers to as “people with heart and hustle”—access to resources and space so they can flourish.
According to her, it is intended to sustain the entire community. We have huge plans and tremendous ideas, but for now we have to finish the construction. Right now, I’m fundraising.
The nonprofit’s first event, Sunset in the Grove, will take place in the pecan grove behind the Main Street buildings on Saturday, July 12, from 5 to 9 p.m.
The Montevallo’s Got Talent showcase, food trucks, vendor booths, dessert kiosks, games, face painting, and a VIP area with merchandise and drink tickets are all planned for the evening. All revenues will be used to renovate the planned Main Street incubator facility, and admission is free.
In order to lower barriers for people who wish to pursue their passion as a career, the area would feature shop booths, shared office space, and storage options.
Phillips stated, “I want to provide a route for those who want to pursue their passions and don’t mind putting in a lot of effort to do so.” I want to do all in my power as a foundation to make their road to achievement as simple as possible.
The Made in Montevallo concept precedes Phillips’ company, Meri Moon, but the foundation is a logical progression of the same spirit and mission to serve the community, she said.
According to her, I got to know folks at Meri Moon by their drink preferences. I’m now getting to know folks based on their hobbies and interests outside of work.
Even while the building renovation is the top priority, Phillips is already planning for future initiatives including small company mentorships, community partnerships, and scholarships for nearby schools.
“I feel like it’s unstoppable if everyone in the community chooses one way to help, whether that’s volunteering, being a visionary, or fundraising,” she added. I want the community to benefit from this, and I want the community to benefit from it.
The event on July 12 serves as a celebration of what is possible in a town like Montevallo as well as a fundraiser.
Phillips remarked, “We’re creating something beautiful.” This very moment. Together.
