Meet Amanda Ferguson | Nonprofit Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Ferguson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The surprising thing is that Bottles For Bill kind of started by accident. I knew I wanted to do something to contribute towards heat relief efforts after losing my brother to heat exhaustion, but didn’t know where to start. I bought a $4 case of water and invited other to do the same on social media. It blew up and next thing I knew I had enough cash to buy five pallets of water. When I thought of starting a business or nonprofit before, it seemed very complicated, but my eyes opened when I saw that it could be as simple as one case of water at a time.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We’re named in honor of my big brother, Bill. He meant so much to our family and was all around a great person. In 2013 he died of heat exhaustion on a 115 degree Arizona day. I started Bottles For Bill nonprofit organization to host water drives and help ensure everyone in the Phoenix Valley had the resources to stay hydrated in our extreme temperatures. In three years, we’ve collected over 189,000 bottles of water for homeless individuals, food banks, community centers, fire evacuation points, first responders and more.

There is no moment I feel more proud than standing in a once empty warehouse that is now filled to the brim with pallets of water. Each Summer I watch donations flood in as my friends, family, and community come together to reach a common goal – provide water to those that need it. I feel my adrenaline pumping, excited to see what we can achieve that year.

Sometimes it’s hard to see all that you’re accomplishing when you’re constantly pushing forward. But for me, when I stand there and gaze over the sea of pallets it finally sinks in. It’s a real, tangible visualization of all that we’re doing to save lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m in love with downtown Mesa. It’s grown on me and I feel so connected to this city. I take everyone there for a burger and beer at 12West Brewing, goodies at Main Street Harvest, the best bread at Proof. Nile Theatre, Myke’s Pizza, Worth Takeaway. The lists goes on and one as you walk down Main Street and I’m always there for the food.

Hole in the Rock is always on the list too. It’s the perfect view to show everyone what the Phoenix Valley is all about. You can see desert landscapes and mountains, the city skyline and the planes flying overtop, it’s more colorful than you’d originally imagine and I find it perfectly captures everything in one shot.

Finally the Salt River. It’s a hidden oasis in the desert and unexpected. So lush and lively and adventurous – yet close to home. I love all the unexpected gems of the desert.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To the list of amazing individuals that have encouraged me, listened to my big idea rants, believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, answered the simplest of questions when I felt lost, sent me resources, and reminded me of the big picture – I raise this bottle of water and say thank you with all my heart. And finally to Jenn who said “you’re already doing it” when exploring incorporating Bottles For Bill – please know I hold those words close each day.

Website: www.bottlesforbill.org

Instagram: @bottlesforbillaz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bottlesforbillaz