According to a press release, the reasoning given was that OWE is no longer “financially viable as a fundraising event.”
“This is one of the most difficult decisions we’ve ever had to make,” said Asante’s senior vice president and chief philanthropy officer Andrea Reeder. “Asante is incredibly honored and proud of the experience and event we created for the community.”
OWE says it has attracted tens of thousands of people from across the country to the event since 2015. The event generated more than $12 million for healthcare programs at Asante in that time frame.
Asante owns and operates all OWE trademarks, including the names Oregon Wine Experience, Oregon Wine Competition, and Oregon Wine University.
Asante says it will fulfill all remaining OWE auction purchases through this year’s event and will host the final Oregon Wine University class in December of this year.
“We extend our immense gratitude to every sponsor, vendor, winery, and guest who helped make OWE a reality,” Reeder said. “The outcomes and opportunities that were made possible through this event will continue to have an impact.”
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