Julie Perdue has been president of the Suwanee Business Alliance since January of 2017. She’s serious about fostering an environment that promotes community and gives business owners in Suwanee a place to network and promote their endeavors. With roughly 200 members currently in the SBA, the group is looking to make 2018 its most impactful year yet…
By: Alicia Carter
Q: What made you want to be involved with the Suwanee Business Alliance on a leadership level?
A: I’ve been a member of the Alliance for at least 10 years and I care deeply about the Suwanee community. It’s a great way to be involved in the community and with other local business people.
Q: What is the purpose of the SBA?
A: The purpose is to bring business people together from all walks of life, and to network and enjoy each other’s company — as well as to help each other grow their business through that networking. We also do fundraising to donate to local charities.
Q: What charities does SBA support?
A: We donate to about 12-15 charities every single year and we try to keep that at a local level. We donate to the Quinn House in Lawrenceville, Gwinnett Children’s Shelter, Cooper’s Crew, Rainbow Village, and Annandale Village, just to name a few.
Q: How do you become a member of SBA?
A: It’s super easy, you just go to the website, suwanee.org, and sign up there. It’s just $60 a year, which is a great value. Our meetings are monthly, and the dues cover all of the food and refreshments at every meeting. And guests are welcome!
Q: Can you tell us about the upcoming Richard Trice Golf Tournament?
A: The tournament is our only fundraiser of the year. Last year we raised $10,000 from the tournament. It’s a lot of fun and any of our members can come out and play. There will be a Professional Long Drive Hitter hitting tee shots on a par 5. He can hit 400 yards, which is more than most pro golfers! The fees for the tournament include breakfast and lunch, and we use that money to give to charities over the year. If you haven’t played the tournament before, you don’t want to miss out! It’s great fun and you don’t have to be an expert player to participate. Our “best ball” format basically means that one of the people of your foursome has to be able to hit the ball — though not necessarily far, and not necessarily well — and onto the fairway. So don’t be intimidated! The main goal of the day is to have fun, network and raise money for charities and families in need in our community. Let’s make this year our biggest tournament yet!
