Whiskey Business – Emerald Isle: A Fundraising Event for Gwyneth’s Gift

Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation is delighted to announce its upcoming fundraising event, “Whiskey Business: Emerald Isle” with our generous presenting sponsor, Mary Washington Healthcare. This exquisite evening is set to take place on September 22, 2023, at the Old Silk Mill in Fredericksburg, and promises to be an unforgettable experience celebrating the finest whiskey from Ireland, complete with whiskey tasting, cigar rolling, live entertainment, silent auction, and an open bar offering a selection of top-shelf whiskey, beer, and wine. 

“Whiskey Business: Emerald Isle” is a unique opportunity for whiskey enthusiasts, business professionals, and philanthropists to network and support the meaningful work of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. Attendees will be immersed on a journey through the rich heritage of Ireland’s acclaimed whiskeys, indulging in tastings of the finest offerings from renowned distilleries.  Throughout this captivating journey, our knowledgeable experts will skillfully guide you, revealing thoughtfully curated selections of premium whiskeys. With an open bar serving a remarkable array of top-shelf whiskey, beer, and wine, attendees will have the opportunity to savor their preferred drinks while engaging in conversations, forging connections, and celebrating the impact of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. 

In addition to the exceptional whiskey tasting experience, attendees enjoy live entertainment that embraces the spirit of Ireland’s cultural heritage. Prepare to be enchanted by performances from talented musicians and entertainers who will create an atmosphere of joy and celebration. 

The silent auction will highlight an assortment of treasures that no one will want to miss. Each piece has been meticulously handpicked by local businesses and sponsors to offer an exclusive experience. With each bid, you can acquire a remarkable item while supporting the local community. 

Join us for an evening filled with sophistication, cultural richness, and unwavering dedication to a worthy cause. Your presence at “Whiskey Business: Emerald Isle” will not only be an unforgettable experience but will directly support Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation’s ongoing efforts to create a Culture of Action by empowering communities with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to save a life.  

Tickets for “Whiskey Business: Emerald Isle” are available for purchase at https://www.gwynethsgift.org/event/whiskey-business-2023/. We encourage early registration as this exclusive event sells out every year. Sponsorships are also available, please email [email protected] for more information. 

About Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation: Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to saving lives through education and action. Founded in honor of Gwyneth Griffin, the foundation focuses on raising awareness and training of Hands-Only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to prevent tragic incidents and empower communities to respond effectively in emergency situations. 

For media inquiries, interview requests, or further information about Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation, please contact: 

Jo Ann Dinwoodie 

Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation 

540-681-1632 

[email protected] 

Shannon Frick

Program Manager

Shannon is the Program Manager at Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation, where she oversees all programs, including CPR & AED training, the AED program, the Scholarship program, and the volunteer program. Coming from a military family, Shannon has traveled the world but calls Northern Virginia her home after more than 20 years in the area.

She graduated from Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia, with a degree in English and later earned an associate’s degree in emergency medical science from Northern Virginia Community College to pursue a career as a first responder. Shannon served as a professional Paramedic/Firefighter for 13 years with the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue. During her tenure, she spent over half of her career in the training division.

Shannon’s extensive instructional experience provides her with a deep understanding of effective teaching methodologies and practices, making her an invaluable asset in delivering successful CPR & AED training to all groups of all ages. Her role at Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation aligns perfectly with her background, as she works to equipe community members with the skills and confidence to perform Hands-Only CPR and use AEDs, ultimately saving lives.

When she is not instructing, Shannon enjoys spending time outdoors. She may be out snowboarding, paddleboarding with her corgi, training her deaf pitbull sign language commands – or just running after both of them with her fiancé at the dog park.

Email: [email protected] 

Joel Griffin

Chairman & Co-Founder

Joel Griffin is co-founder and chairman of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. Gwyneth’s Gift was founded in 2015 by Joel and Jennifer Griffin in honor of their oldest daughter, Gwyneth. He is also an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist with 25 years of private industry consulting experience and 20 years in government contracting. He is the Founder and CEO of Riphean, a regional growth management firm.

Joel is committed to philanthropy within the region through local nonprofits and organizations that strengthen local communities. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance, Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, Stafford Hospital Foundation, and Germanna Educational Foundation. Joel was recognized for his impact and leadership within the region, receiving the Prince B. Woodward Leadership Award in 2022.

In addition to the regional award, Joel received the Valor Award from Loudon County for his life-saving efforts in an emergency. He also received the Patriotic Civilian Service Award given by the U.S. Army for actions taken immediately and following 9/11 at The Pentagon in 2001.