MOUN VERNON — Bourbon lovers and community champions, take note. Habitat for Humanity of Knox County is thrilled to announce Bottles for Builds, a rare bourbon raffle and tasting event.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, May 1, at 6 p.m. at Bickerdyke Table and Tap, 109 S. Main St., Mount Vernon.

The evening features bourbon-themed hors d’oeuvres, exclusive tastings, and a chance to win some of the most sought-after bottles in the bourbon world. Local favorite Court ‘n Jester will provide live entertainment, offering the perfect soundtrack to a night dedicated to great spirits and greater community impact.

Tickets are available online now and include entry into a drawing for one of 10 premium bourbon prize packages. The grand prize is valued at over $3,000. Standouts include rare selections like Blanton’s Gold, Stagg Jr., Knob Creek 18, and a Complete Blanton’s Set (eight bottles) awarded as the second-place prize.

Supporting Habitat’s mission

While the bourbon collection is reason enough to attend, the heart of the event lies in its mission: to help build homes, community, and hope for families in Knox County.

All proceeds from Bottles for Builds support Habitat’s expanding home construction and repair efforts. The organization is building four homes on Columbus Road in Mount Vernon. Two more are scheduled to begin before the end of summer.

These six homes are part of a much larger plan. Twelve12 homes will be built by the end of 2026, helping address the region’s growing need for affordable housing.

“Bottles for Builds isn’t just a fundraiser — it’s a catalyst,” said Terry Schulz, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Knox County. “Every ticket purchased, every bottle raffled, is another step toward ending housing insecurity in our own backyard. It’s about neighbors coming together to build a stronger, more stable Knox County — one home at a time.”

Two of the current builds are part of a groundbreaking partnership with Owens Corning. They feature high-efficiency insulation that will reduce utility costs for future homeowners. Habitat’s model empowers families not only through affordable mortgages but also through energy-conscious construction that ensures long-term sustainability and comfort.

“Affordable housing is about more than just four walls and a roof — it’s about providing a safe space where families can grow, thrive, and plan for the future,” Schulz said. “We’ve seen firsthand how transformational homeownership can be for a family, especially when supported by a caring community.”

Prize drawings

The grand prize package for the raffle includes a stunning selection of rare bourbons: Wild Turkey Master’s Keep, Angel’s Envy Triple Oaked, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel, George Dickel 15 Year, Blanton’s Gold, Knob Creek 18, Stagg Jr., E.H. Taylor Small Batch, Booker’s, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, Four Roses Single Barrel, and Jefferson’s Single Barrel.

Additional prize packages feature collector favorites like Weller Antique 107, Eagle Rare, Old Elk, Woodford Reserve, Watershed’s experimental barrels, and more.

Ten prize drawings will take place, and winners do not need to be present to claim their prizes — though guests will want to stay for the full evening of music, food, and community celebration.

Raffle tickets are on sale now at www.hfhknoxoh.org/bourbon-raffle. You must be 21 or older to purchase. Ticket quantities are limited, and early purchase is strongly encouraged. However, tickets will be sold at the door on the day of the event as long as supplies last.

Since its founding in 1987, Habitat for Humanity of Knox County has worked alongside volunteers and donors to build decent, affordable homes for local families. With housing costs rising across the region, the need for safe and stable housing has never been more urgent — or achievable — thanks to events like Bottles for Builds.

“With every brick laid and every dollar raised, we’re telling our neighbors: you belong here,” said Schulz. “And Bottles for Builds is just one more way we can raise the funds — and raise the roofs — to make that promise real.”

Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon collector, a casual sipper, or someone who wants to support lasting change in our community, you’re invited to join us in building something extraordinary. Come for the bourbon, stay for the mission.