While events and programs do bring people together, the volunteers, supporters, artists, and community leaders who are behind the scenes are those who make these experiences possible.
George has been involved with the FAF Coalition since its earliest days, helping transform a bold vision into an organization that has since impacted countless artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, and, more importantly, the community in Woodbury and South Jersey.
From booking artists and vendor coordination to strategic planning, fundraising, and event operations, George has played a role in every single stage of FAF and LOT 323’s growth.
In the early years, when FAF was building its identity and just getting started within the community, George became a driving force behind many of the organization’s initiatives. His passion for supporting creatives, entrepreneurs, and his community helped create opportunities for countless musicians, artists, and vendors to help connect within the community and grow their businesses.
“Meeting Tara and forging ahead with the Fall Arts Festival without really knowing what I was doing was the best thing for me,’ George said. “All I knew was I wanted us to have amazing food.”
The passion helped him take the lead in building one of South Jersey’s earliest food truck festivals, bringing together dozens of vendors from around the area and creating opportunities for small businesses to reach new audiences.
An area where George’s impact really had a significant pull was his support of the South Jersey food truck community. Before food trucks became a familiar part of community events throughout the region, George had recognized their ability to bring people together while also supporting small businesses and helping them thrive. Through FAF festivals, LOT 323, and numerous community events, he was a major part of creating opportunities that benefited both vendors and visitors alike.
Looking back on more than a decade of involvement, George’s favorite memories center around the incredible growth of the organization and the community it helped build.
“Bringing tens of thousands of people to Woodbury for two massive shows in 2012 and 2013 really made it seem like we could make the city a destination for Create Placemaking in South Jersey,” he said. “The friends, the celebrations…all make it worth it.”
He is particularly proud of seeing LOT 323 evolve into a recognized destination for live music and community gathering.
“I am very proud that LOT 323 is a legitimate concert venue in South Jersey, hosting some of the best musicians and bands from the tri-state area,” George said. “We’ve really put Woodbury on the map with our diverse music offerings.”
Even after his move from Woodbury, George has had an immense dedication to FAF that never faded. He continued to volunteer, advise, and contribute his time and expertise while helping bring new ideas and partnerships to the organizations. His commitment is a reflection of one of FAF’s core values…building community through creativity, collaborations, and service.
George has also witnessed firsthand the impact FAF and LOT 323 have had on the community over the years.
“Woodbury seems to have really taken to the LOT,” he said. “I’ve seen little kids grow up at the LOT and come to the shows as high schoolers and still enjoying it like they always have.”
As The FAF Coalition looks toward its next chapter with LOT @ The Lake, George remains optimistic about the future and the continued growth of arts and culture throughout Gloucester County.
“Seeing what FAF can continue to create to further establish Gloucester County as a hub for arts and culture in New Jersey” is what excites him most about the future.
The FAF Coalition continues moving, and for its next chapter, George’s influence can still be seen throughout the LOT. Through music, food, partnerships, and the welcoming atmosphere that continues to bring people together.
