Lauren Deese is the executive director of Charlotte Wine + Food, a nonprofit organization that brings together wine and food connoisseurs to raise money for children’s charities in the Charlotte area.
The nonprofit’s tagline is “Connoisseurs for a Cause.”
Charlotte Wine + Food hosts a weeklong event every April with wine auctions and dining events across the city. In April 2023, the organization raised money for The Learning Collaborative preschool in Grier Heights, the Augustine Literacy Project, GenOne and A Child’s Place.
In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Deese discusses:
Charlotte Wine + Food’s origin, mission and evolution over the years.
Changes in the wine industry and finding a wine that suits individual tastes.
What events and activities happen during Charlotte Wine + Food Week.
The organization's commitment to raising money for local children’s charities and the impact of their support.
Potential challenges and surprises that come with organizing events.
How Charlotte has changed, especially South End's transformation.
Her advice to young professionals moving to the area.
Deese received The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 Award in 2021 for her work with Charlotte Wine + Food and the impact she’s had on children’s charities in the Charlotte area.
This podcast episode is part of a series highlighting winners of The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 awards, which honor and celebrate often unheralded people over the age of 40 who are making impactful contributions to Charlotte. It’s hosted by Steve Dunn of Miles Mediation and Arbitration.
Find out more about the 40 Over 40 awards by going to Ledger40over40.com.
We hope you enjoy the conversation with Lauren Deese.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
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Sipping to serve, with Lauren Deese of Charlotte Wine + Food