What a year!!
This past year was challenging and rewarding, humbling and empowering. I came into it thinking I knew more than I did — and I came out of it realizing I’m more resilient than I ever expected.
Operating a large, mission-driven space takes people, systems, and intention. This year gave us the clarity to understand exactly what works, what needs refinement, and how to build something sustainable for the long term.
As we move forward, we’re taking every win and every lesson and applying them with purpose, beginning January 1.
2025: POSITIVE IMPACT IN A STRETCHING SEASON
2025 was a year of meaningful impact — and significant growth through challenge. Over the course of the year, The Vinew Shoppe contributed $17,517 to nonprofit partners through direct giving, sponsorships, and community-driven events.
It was also our first full year navigating real traffic patterns, seasonality, and the realities of operating a large space. We faced unexpected hurdles, including a flood that shut us down for about a week during an already slow month, along with rent increases, taxes, and ongoing operational demands.
One of the biggest lessons came through giving. While the total amount given was substantial, spreading it across too many organizations made it difficult to create deep, lasting impact in any one place. Some nonprofits had strong infrastructure and boards in place, while others needed more hands-on support than we were able to provide in that season.
That realization led to an important shift: generosity needs structure to remain sustainable. Giving from the heart matters — but stewardship matters too.
THE IMPORTANCE OF RELATIONSHIPS
Two relationships in particular helped shape both our impact and our direction: Foundation XXL Hope and Cornerstone Restoration.
Foundation XXL Hope consistently demonstrates what it looks like to identify a need and act without hesitation. Their reach spans youth development, self-preservation, entrepreneurship, and hands-on community service, and their response during local disasters revealed both leadership and depth. Working alongside them has been energizing and instructive — they don’t wait for perfect conditions; they move when the need is clear.
Cornerstone Restoration represents a different but equally powerful model of impact. As a mission-based construction ministry, their work begins with care teams and relationship-building before a single board is replaced. Their long-term commitment to individuals — including continued support years after a project is completed — and their rapid response during the floods showed a level of compassion, organization, and follow-through that left a lasting impression. Their mission to share the Gospel through construction is lived out as much through relationships as through rebuilding homes.
These partnerships reinforced an important truth: the most meaningful impact happens when organizations grow together, learning from one another and building trust over time.
2026: FOCUSED, INTENTIONAL, AND EXCITING
Going into 2026, The Vinew Shoppe is moving forward with clarity and confidence. This is a defining year — not because of uncertainty, but because of intention.
We have committed to $17,000 in structured giving for 2026, not including additional contributions made during community events such as Hop Around the Hill, Liberty Hill Stroll, Holiday Around the Hill, and the Liberty Hill Christmas Stroll.
Our year-long nonprofit partnerships allow us to go deeper rather than wider, creating impact that is measurable, relational, and sustainable. Foundation XXL Hope and Cornerstone Restoration will serve as our two confirmed year-round partners, with a third organization currently being interviewed and vetted.
In addition, we will provide two to three $1,000 sponsorships to local organizations including L4 Cares and Yesterday’s Gone.
One of the most exciting new initiatives for 2026 is our competitive giving model, which opens participation to any nonprofit in Liberty Hill or adjacent towns. Points are earned through community donations, tracked weekly, and awarded through a combination of performance-based grants and a lottery system. At the end of June and December, grants will be awarded to both top-performing organizations and smaller nonprofits, ensuring everyone has a meaningful chance to benefit.
This model encourages engagement, storytelling, and collaboration — while reinforcing the importance of community awareness and shared growth. Giving thrives when businesses, nonprofits, and shoppers grow together, and we’re excited to explore new partnerships that make that experience both impactful and fun.
As we enter the new year, our focus is clear: refine the business model, strengthen the foundation, and grow our impact in ways that honor both the community we serve and the mission we carry forward.
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What a year!!
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