You’re one step closer to blending your love for bourbon with a mission that’s truly close to our hearts. The Charlotte Bourbon Society (CBS), co-founded by Ken and Tracey Bernardo, proudly invites you to the 8th Annual Bourbon Hearts Dinner Benefit & Auction on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Providence Country Club.
Our Story
In 2017, Ken’s father, Don Bernardo Sr., passed away from cardiovascular disease. At the same time, Ken was serving as Chairman of the Greater Charlotte Heart Walk for the American Heart Association, facing an uphill fundraising climb. Out of this personal loss grew resolve—and the first Bourbon Hearts Dinner.
That inaugural event was made possible with the help of longtime friend John Little, Founder of Smooth Ambler Spirits, who jumped in without hesitation. Today, John continues his support under his new brand, Little & Foster Whiskey, alongside his business partner, Johnny Foster. Since then, the support has only grown—fueled by craft bourbon makers, distilleries, spirits industry professionals, and supporters from across the country who have stood shoulder to shoulder with us, building both generosity and community spirit.
Fast forward eight years: together, we’ve raised nearly $700,000 for the American Heart Association and the HeartBright Foundation. This year, we’re raising the bar higher than ever for Charlotte’s premier bourbon dinner benefit.
About HeartBright Foundation
The HeartBright Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charity headquartered in Charlotte, NC. Its mission is to provide education on healthy lifestyles and fund preventive cardiology programs in economically disadvantaged communities. Last year's donation of $150,000 will help treat 3,000 HeartBright patients in economically disadvantaged communities.
Their services follow the A.M.E.S. approach:
A: Alert – Informing the public about risk factors of heart disease
M: Measure – Conducting individual risk assessments with current testing technologies
E: Educate – Offering initial and ongoing education to support heart-healthy goals
S: Support – Providing resources, motivational programs, and management tools
Why Attend?
This isn’t just a dinner. It’s an unforgettable evening of fine bourbon, elevated dining, and a spirited auction featuring hard-to-find bottles, curated experiences, and local treasures. Each bid and ticket purchase directly supports life-changing programs, therapies, and community health initiatives through our benefactor, the HeartBright Foundation.
Giving Back (and Getting a Deduction)
Your generosity may also benefit you at tax time. Under IRS guidelines, ticket purchases, donations, and auction items may be tax-deductible to the extent the purchase price exceeds the fair market value of goods or services received. Attendees will receive documentation from the HeartBright Foundation for qualifying contributions.
For reference, the IRS notes:
“If you receive a benefit in return for your contribution, such as dinner or entertainment, only the amount above the fair market value of that benefit is deductible.”
Be sure to keep all receipts and acknowledgment letters for your tax records.
At CBS, inclusion isn’t just a word—it’s our foundation. Whether you’re new to bourbon or a seasoned enthusiast, your presence strengthens the heartbeat of our community. Together, we raise a glass not only to great whiskey but also to a healthier tomorrow.
Mark your calendar: Friday, November 14, 2025.
Join us at Providence Country Club for a night where bourbon does more than thrill the senses—it fuels the fight against the #1 killer in the United States: Heart Disease.
Cheers, Ken & Tracey Bernardo
Co-Founders, Charlotte Bourbon Society
Terms & Conditions
All auction item sales are final. Winners must claim their items by the end of the evening (Friday, Nov. 14, 2025). Items not picked up will be held for 45 days before being forfeited. Contact Ken Bernardo with any questions.
