Lifting Up Others: Brian’s Legacy

In 2021, Erin was unsure about attending a food drive organized by her employer. It was the same day as her father’s birthday – the first after his passing.⁠
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“I expected to feel sad on the day of the drive,” Erin shared. “But instead, I woke up feeling that my dad, Brian, would want me to go. I realized I could do some good in his name. I wrote a quick Facebook post asking for donations, and soon after, I received over $4,000, filled my car with food, and was able to make a large cash donation to a shelter.”⁠
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Inspired by that experience, Erin, along with friends, family, and colleagues, began organizing the annual Unstoppable Good Drive in memory of Brian. The drive happens each year in August around his birthday (8/11) and the anniversary of his passing (8/19). This year, Erin and her family chose to raise money for The Lift Garage.⁠
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“My mom heard about The Lift Garage through a news story. When we were discussing where to focus our efforts, The Lift Garage immediately stood out as a mission my dad would fully support.”⁠
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Why? Because Brian understood the transformative power of reliable transportation. While working in Dakota County Community Corrections, he recognized the transportation barriers faced by clients being released from the remote jail in Hastings – offering rides in his personal vehicle before he helped establish the Dakota County Jail Transportation Program.⁠
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“My dad was the most generous person I’ve ever met. He was generous with his time, his money, his spirit, his cooking, and his hospitality. Carrying on his goodness and generosity has helped ease the ache in all of our hearts after losing him too soon. We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of our community as we work to continue his legacy.”⁠
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Because of their dedication, this year’s drive raised over $4,500 for low-cost car repairs at The Lift! We’re deeply grateful for the support and touched to have been chosen in honor of Brian’s memory. Thank you.