Hops in the Hills, a community-based organization was honored with the San Marcos Inspiration, Leadership and Excellence (SMILE) award at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 14.
Councilmember Sannella presented the award to the organization for their remarkable dedication to providing financial support to local schools and enhancing the learning environment for the city’s youth.
“I am in awe of the notable services by Hops in the Hills because they’re not only investing in our children’s education, but their future as well. With generosity from the organization, they’re enriching our education system,” said Councilmember Sannella.
Hops in the Hills was founded in 2017 after Tina and Phillip Heap had a conversation with a local craft brewery owner about school fundraising. After their conversation, Tina and Phillip connected with Richard and Ann Marie Amador who were local craft beer enthusiasts. Together they strategized a way they could host a locally focused community event to fundraise for the city’s schools. With this strategized plan, the team gauged community sentiment, and ultimately gained support from the San Elijo Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).
Hops in the Hills has now been supporting local schools for five years and has raised a total of $141,439.58.
SMILE Award recipient Hops in the HillsHere is a breakdown presenting the amount of earned funds since its first year in 2017:
2017 – $8,365.76
2018 – $27,010.29
2019 – $30,543.22
2020/2021 – COVID
2022 – $38,750.74
2023 – $36,769. 57
“An organization like Hops in the Hills is what makes the quality of life in San Marcos flourish,” remarked Councilmember Sannella. “By supporting our youth, the organization is making the city stronger to enhance community relationships.”
All of their ticket sales from the events go towards San Marcos schools, and additional local sponsorships are a crucial part of the event’s success. City government entities also play a role in the event process to ensure the community enjoys a safe and fun event. A special thanks to the City of San Marcos, parks and recreation, San Elijo HOA, ABC department, Sheriff’s department, and fire department.
“Support across all departments and city government entities represents the strong relationships in San Marcos and truly illustrates our togetherness as a community. When there is support from one, there is support from all of San Marcos,” described Councilmember Sannella.
To find more information about Hops in the Hills and sponsorship opportunities, visit their Facebook page @SEH Hops in the Hills or email Tina Heap at tinaheap2015@gmail.com.
About the San Marcos City Council’s Civic SMILE Award
There are often community members who rise to the top – clearly reflecting this San Marcos ‘Spirit of Service.’ That’s why San Marcos City Council members initiated the Civic SMILE Award recognition program in March 2021.
Five times each year, a community member is chosen by a specific City Council member to receive recognition and will be presented with a San Marcos Inspiration, Leadership and Excellence (SMILE) Award during a City Council meeting.
For more information about the recognition program: San Marcos Civic SMILE Award.
