Bristol, Tennessee, October 11, 2025
News Summary
In a remarkable community effort, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol has donated over $40,000 to local nonprofits, including the Bristol Tennessee Firefighters Association and Kari’s Heart Foundation. These funds will support families in need during the holiday season. The casino’s initiatives encourage community contributions towards local charitable causes. Following this success, Hard Rock will host its second annual Day of Giving, featuring significant grants for eligible nonprofits in the area.
Bristol, Tennessee – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol made a significant impact in the community by donating over $40,000 to local nonprofits on Tuesday, October 9, 2025. The funds were distributed to the Bristol Tennessee Firefighters Association and Kari’s Heart Foundation, supporting their efforts to assist families in need during the holiday season.
The generous donations were collected through various fundraising initiatives, including ticket boxes placed on the casino floor. These efforts aim to encourage the community to contribute to local charitable causes and support those in need.
Scott Wise, President of Local 3227 Bristol, expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasizing the positive impact it will have in bringing joy to children and families during the holidays. The Bristol Tennessee Firefighters Association plans to utilize the funds for their upcoming Christmas Kids Celebration, a special event designed to engage and uplift the spirits of local youth during the festive season.
In addition, Kari’s Heart Foundation aims to provide assistance to families in crisis using the funds received. This support is crucial for families facing hardships, particularly during the holiday period when financial strains can increase significantly.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol is committed to aiding local organizations, as highlighted by Michele Rodriguez, the casino’s Internal Communications & Community Outreach Manager. Rodriguez underlined the importance of giving back to the community and supporting local organizations that work tirelessly to improve the lives of residents.
Looking ahead, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will host its second annual Day of Giving on November 25, 2025. This event will feature the awarding of five $10,000 donations, along with a significant $100,000 donation to a local nonprofit through the newly established ‘Band Together Fund.’ The objective of the larger donation is to support substantial projects that have a lasting positive impact on the community.
Nonprofits interested in applying for the $100,000 grant are encouraged to submit video proposals by the application deadline of October 17, 2025. The finalists for the grant will be announced on October 24, and the winning organization will be revealed during the Day of Giving ceremony. Eligibility for the funding requires organizations to be registered nonprofits located within a 60-mile radius of the casino.
These initiatives exemplify the partnership between local businesses and nonprofits, evidencing a commitment to foster community spirit and enhance the lives of those in need within the Bristol area.
FAQ
-
What amount did Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol donate to local nonprofits?
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol donated more than $40,000 to local nonprofits on Tuesday, October 9, 2025. -
Which organizations received donations?
The donations were made to the Bristol Tennessee Firefighters Association and Kari’s Heart Foundation. -
How were the funds raised?
The funds were collected through ticket boxes on the casino floor and other fundraising initiatives. -
What event is Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol hosting next?
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will host its second annual Day of Giving on November 25, 2025. -
What is the ‘Band Together Fund’?
The ‘Band Together Fund’ will award five $10,000 donations and one $100,000 donation to a local nonprofit.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Donation Amount | $40,000+ |
| Beneficiaries | Bristol Tennessee Firefighters Association, Kari’s Heart Foundation |
| Date of Donation | October 9, 2025 |
| Next Event | Day of Giving on November 25, 2025 |
| Eligible Nonprofits for Grant | Registered nonprofits within a 60-mile radius |
| Grant Amount | $100,000 + ($10,000 each for five organizations) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol Announces Second Annual Day of Giving
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Additional Resources
- WCYB News
- Wikipedia: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
- Bristol Herald Courier
- Google Search: Hard Rock Bristol donations
- WJHL News
- Google Scholar: Economic impact of casinos
- VA Dogwood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Casinos
- CDC Gaming Reports
- Google News: Hard Rock Bristol

Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


