Bite-sized GoFundMe Campaign Becomes Full Course Donation

When a few Tesla owners across New York State had a fundraising idea, they were in for a treat when all the pieces came together. Conceptualized two months ago by Niagara Frontier Regional Organizer, John P. Weiksnar, the campaign was a way to show gratitude to factory workers at Tesla’s Buffalo Gigafactory. Key Member Brian Swails and Club Manager Stephen Pallotta partnered to create a GoFundMe campaign to bring the idea to fruition.

Over the course of those two months, a total of $2,937 was donated by individuals from around the state and as far out as California. TOCNYS communicated with Marci Gregson at Gigafactory New York (GFNY) to develop a joint strategy beyond the initial plan to donate doughnuts and coffee to factory employees. In consummation with Tesla they expanded the focus of the campaign funds directly to the local community where GFNY operates.

On top of raising funds, GFNY employees had also collected food items for FeedMore WNY. On Monday, June 8, 2020, John arrived at the factory to assemble with Tesla Executive Assistant Nicole Kulik and HR People Partner Julia Spunt. Together they transported over 94 lbs. of food in Model 3s from the factory to FeedMore WNY headquarters. Working with Feedmore WNY’s Special Events and Volunteer Coordinator, Gaelyn Clay-Adams, TOCNYS and GFNY combined their funds to a total of $4,100!

This campaign would not have been possible without the 80 generous GoFundMe donors and Tesla employees who decided to give back to the world. These individuals helped shine a light of compassion and love in a time where many of us needed it most.

Thank you!