GREENFIELD — The Grapevine, a fellowship hall for Alcoholics Anonymous and similar groups, is hosting its first fundraiser.
For the first time in its 30 years, the Grapevine is asking for outside funding for improvement to the 93 Chapman St. building that has hosted meetings since 1989. Specifically, the building needs a new heating and cooling system.
The annual barbecue that will serve as a fundraiser will also be in honor of the Grapevine’s 30th anniversary. The barbecue will be on Monday (Labor Day) at the Grapevine beginning at 4 p.m.
Admission is free, but donations will be accepted. Food includes hot dogs and hamburgers as well as potluck dishes.
There will be music by disc jockey Laurie B, a 50/50 raffle and other raffles for various small items. At 6 p.m., there will be an open AA meeting.
According to David Roulston, president of the board of directors, the Grapevine is a nonprofit home to 11 different groups that hold meetings seven days a week.
“We serve about 200 people a day,” he said. “The Grapevine is at the heart of a tight-knit community that is also needy. The benefit of the availability of the meetings dovetails with the community’s effort to combat addiction.”
Roulston said the Grapevine has been funded by voluntary contributions of the meeting attendees.
“Staffing at the Grapevine consists of two resident co-managers who live in the Grapevine and receive free room in lieu of a salary,” Roulston said. “There are no administrative staff and only a volunteer board of directors.”
The Grapevine was built by members of the AA community. The city of Greenfield owns the property, but the Grapevine is responsible for the rent, utilities and all maintenance, including the heating and air conditioning.
The 30-year-old heating and cooling system needs to be replaced at a cost of about $10,000. It is too old to find replacement parts and fall is approaching, Roulston said.
The goal is to raise $30,000 to pay for the new system and establish a permanent fund for any major repairs needed in the future.
For those wishing to donate, checks can be sent to the Grapevine at 93 Chapman St., P.O. Box 1104, Greenfield MA, 01302. Online donations can also be made at GoFundMe.com/9bf24v. Thus far, the digital fundraiser has raise $660.
Reach Melina Bourdeau at mbourdeau@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 263.