The staff of two businesses under the same owner-- Beerland and Super Secret Records-- have been struggling with bouncing paychecks or no paychecks for months now. After about half of the employees finally received back pay, it's still estimated it to be over $16,000 owed. To help those who haven't been paid yet be able to pay bills and rent while we're navigating legal actions, we're asking you to donate what you can!
Everything donated within the goal will be given directly to Beerland and Super Secret Records employees who are still waiting on months of lost wages and anything over will be donated to a nonprofit!
"Beerland has played a critical role in the music community in Austin for over 18 years, and regardless of the current circumstances of ownership or what the future may hold, the people who made it their livelihoods and hung on because they believed in its value deserve the support of the community they served. This is not a replacement for the wages owed, as those will continue to be pursued. This is a lifeline to those who worked so hard to keep this special place going."
Additional information about distribution of donations: Donations will be distributed directly to Beerland and Super Secret Records employees who are in need due to unpaid wages. Beerland, Super Secret Records, and their mutual owner are not involved in this Gofundme effort. The donations are not being used to pay wages as those are still being pursued from the aforementioned owner of these businesses. Donations will be distributed to employees and former employees based on the wages that are still owed, as it is unclear when or if those will be recovered. If employees who are beneficiaries of these donations happen to receive their unpaid wages at a later time (after the donations have been distributed), they will be able to keep the donated amount. In that case, the donation will be considered financial relief for hardships encountered during the time of nonpayment as well as support during job searches. If the donations exceed the amount of wages still owed, excess donations may also be used by employees for legal action related to unpaid wages. Donations exceeding all needs directly related to unpaid wages will be donated to an Austin based nonprofit (to be determined).
This Gofundme account was initiated by a concerned member of the Austin music community (this individual is not an affected employee). The account has subsequently been transferred to Donya Stockton, longtime friend and supporter of the Austin music community. Donya will oversee the remainder of the effort and distribute funds to staff members in need.
