We asked for you to nominate the Bourbon Women you know doing remarkable things that show how we express our BW values in the wider world. This month we are recognizing Florida member Teresa Eichner nominated by Bourbon Women Florida Branch Ambassador, Brandi Saldivar.
“In 2016, Bourbon Woman, Teresa Eichner was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Since her diagnosis, Teresa has led MS Walk teams, serving on the North Florida area board and lobbying in Florida and Washington, D.C., among other things. She has received the North Florida Chapter Volunteer of the Year Award. In 2020, the pandemic hindered fundraising as the walk for 2021 would be virtual. She decided it was time to get creative and use her love of Bourbon to raise money in hopes to find the cure for her and millions of others living with MS.
“This was the birth of Jax Bourbon Social. In 2021 Teresa and her team hosted their first event where distilleries from all over the country were invited at no charge to share sips and educate about whiskey while helping raise money for an amazing cause. The 2021 event raised $23,520; Teresa’s goal was $5,000.
“In 2022 Teresa was nominated as Jacksonville Jaguars Most Generous Fan presented by Crown Royal; she was recognized at the Dinner of Champions for the National MS Society at Jacksonville Zoo; Jax Bourbon Social had a piece written on them in The Florida times-Union nonprofits section; featured on the front page of the Jacksonville Metro Newspaper; and was recognized in the Momentum Magazine (The National Society of MS Magazine).
“The 2022 Jax Bourbon Social Event sold out the same day tickets went on sale, the venue needed to be moved due to the amount of whiskey vendors interested in participating and guests wanting to attend. Teresa and her team more than doubled what they raised the previous year, being able to contribute $60,769 to the National MS Society.
“In March 2023, Teresa and her team at Jax Bourbon Social were featured in Whiskey & Leisure Magazine; in this same issue Bourbon Women was also featured. The 2023 Jax Bourbon Social raised $104,901. Over the course of 3 annual Whiskey Tasting Events. Teresa and Jax Bourbon Social have raised more than $185,000 for The National MS Society.
“In January 2024 she was on Tommy Mac’s Show The Horse’s Mouth, the episode about Bourbon for a Cause and on March 12th 2024 she was on First Coast News Discussing Walk MS coming up this month. July 20, 2024 will be the 4th annual Jax Bourbon Social event.
“Teresa has a background in public and government relations and continues to use her influence and reputation to rally the community behind an incredible cause while drinking some amazing whiskey along the way. This will be the second year Bourbon Women has a table at the event to help share the incredible world of Bourbon with women on fire to make a difference. This year’s event will be held on July 20th 2024. Teresa Eichner has bonded the local Jacksonville community with the national Bourbon community in amazing efforts to find a cure, #pourforacure. Teresa created an event centered around Bourbon to come together for a common goal where they could connect, experience, and be part of the community.”
Brandi’s nomination shows how Teresa took her passion for a cause personal to her and created an amazing event that rallied her local community to support her through her love of bourbon and dedication to supporting research and raising awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. Teresa’s efforts have not only raised substantial funds but also created a platform for education and connection within the bourbon community, demonstrating the powerful impact one individual can make when fueled by passion and purpose.
Would you like to nominate a fabulous member making a different in your local community? We’re recognizing women who live our values in their communities: celebratory joy, diversity and inclusion, empowering growth community connection, and inspiring recognition. Have someone in mind? Perfect! We’re calling for nominations. Whether it’s the life-of-the-party lady who always has a smile, the inclusive soul who makes everyone feel at home, or the inspiring mentor who cheers on our personal growth – let’s hear it!
Nominate any member who has touched your life, be it a local branch buddy, a sip-session companion, or a stellar board member. Share their stories and show how they sparkle in our community. It’s easy – just three questions and can be as short and sweet as you like! Shout out here!
