What is First Fridays at Five?

First Fridays is a not-for-profit organization that has touched many charitable organizations in the Roanoke Valley through monetary donations.  Since 1989, First Friday's has been able to donate over $1 million dollars, thanks to the support from our community and local area businesses.  This year alone, 21 charities in the Roanoke Valley will receive donations from our First Fridays events.  Please help us continue to make a difference in the Roanoke Valley. Your support is greatly appreciated!

History:

First Fridays at Five was established by Barry Simmerman and Richard Beard. 

1989
 First Friday’s Concept brought to fruition and the first event occurs on August 4, 1989.  850 partygoers were in attendance! In it’s first year, 4 charities received $1350.
1990

First Friday’s incorporates and elects an 11-member board in January – Season expands from April through October.
1992

Organizers move event from Century Square to First Union Plaza (larger space near the City Market)
Look at us GROW!  Revenue picks up allowing First Fridays to distribute more funding to charities.
1994
 14 charities received $3600
1997
 21 charities received $3600
1998

21 charities received $4000
1999
 $71,400 distributed
2000 - 2004
 $84,000 distributed
2005
 Event moved to new location (Downtown Rail Car Lot) due to ground breaking for the new Art Museum
2006
 First Fridays updates our logo and launches a new website!
2006
 distributed $63,000 to 21 charities in the Roanoke Valley
2007
 distributed $63,000 to 21 charities in the Roanoke Valley
2007
 Attendance averages 1049 per event. New sponsors include Bella Magazine, The South Roanoke Circle and Just the Fax!
2008
 First Friday's continue to gain new sponsors with Fox 21/27 & CW5.
2008
 First Friday's MySpace account launches.
Facebook is in the works!
2008
 Record attendance May with 3007 patrons!

2007 Board Members:

Molly Henry - President & Charities Coordinator
Robert Bennett - Charities Coordinator
Susan Stanley - 1st Vice President & Banking
Josh Mattox - Immediate Past President & Secretary
Ronnie Cassell - Security & Sponsorships
Bill Clark - Sponsorships & Logistics Support
Tim Boitnott - Treasurer
Kent Martin - Event Entertainment/Bands
Steve Wills - Legal
Kent Ratliff - Operations
John Siebel - Operations & Equiptment Storage
Victor Gravely - Community Liaison

Kent Martin & Steve Wills are not in photo.

 
 
 Copyright 2007 - First Fridays at Five
Photography Credits · Web Design by Automated Horizons, Inc.