Tampa’s Liquor Depot Raises $20K for Mike Alstott Foundation with Charity Barrel
When Tampa’s business and sports communities unite, good things follow.
Liquor Depot owner Trey Lawson and former Buccaneers fullback Mike Alstott once again partnered for the store’s annual charity barrel fundraiser, selling all 125 bottles of an exclusive 12-year Penelope Estate Collection Rye in a single day.
The event, held Oct. 11 at Liquor Depot’s Waters Avenue location, raised $20,000 for the Mike Alstott Family Foundation, which supports local families and children through community programs.
The partnership reflects a growing trend among Tampa Bay businesses that view community engagement as a core part of their identity. For Liquor Depot, philanthropy is not a marketing exercise but an extension of its connection to customers and the city it serves.
What Happened
Lawson, a lifelong Buccaneers fan, launched the charity barrel program in 2021 to give back to the community. Each year, he teams up with Alstott to select a limited-edition barrel from a respected distillery. The bottles are sold exclusively through Liquor Depot, with 100% of proceeds donated to the Mike Alstott Family Foundation.
This year’s release, a 12-year Penelope Estate Collection Rye priced at $169.50 per bottle, honored the Buccaneers’ 50th season. The $169.50 price point paid tribute to the Buccaneers’ 50th season.
Since launching the program, Liquor Depot has raised nearly $60,000 for the foundation, which provides support through events, grants and family assistance programs.
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“Single barrels are incredibly unique and once they’re gone, they’re gone forever,” Lawson said. “We were excited to once again offer this exclusive barrel opportunity to help raise funds for the Mike Alstott Family Foundation and make a difference in our community.”
The Oct. 11 event attracted collectors, customers and fans who lined up for photos and bottle signings with Alstott.
What’s Happening Now
The Mike Alstott Family Foundation continues to expand its programs across the Tampa Bay area. The organization’s mission is to uplift the minds, hearts and spirits of families and children on their way to realizing their full potential.
Liquor Depot, which operates six locations across Tampa Bay, has become known for pairing retail success with recurring community initiatives that foster goodwill and strengthen local ties.
What This Means for You
For business owners and leaders, Liquor Depot’s example highlights the value of authentic community engagement. Philanthropy does not have to come from large corporations. It can grow from consistent, locally focused efforts that align with a company’s values.
When community impact becomes part of a business model, it strengthens brand identity and customer loyalty. Consumers are more likely to support companies that reflect their own priorities and give back to their neighborhoods.
For Tampa Bay entrepreneurs, the takeaway is clear. Supporting local causes is not just good for the community. It’s good for business.
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What You Can Do Now
If you are a business owner looking to take similar action:
- Choose a cause that genuinely aligns with your company’s mission.
- Create a program that can be repeated or expanded each year.
- Partner with community leaders or recognizable figures who share your values.
- Use your digital platforms to highlight impact, not just promotion.
Tampa Bay thrives on local collaboration. Businesses that lead with purpose often find themselves at the center of both goodwill and growth.
Takeaway
Liquor Depot and the Mike Alstott Family Foundation have proven that impact can be handcrafted, one barrel at a time. Their partnership has raised tens of thousands for local families while showing how small businesses can drive significant results for their communities.
As Tampa Bay continues to grow, this collaboration stands as a reminder that leadership often begins with generosity.
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