Ride-Share Firm's Donated Fare Proceeds Benefit Musicians

AUSTIN, TX — Ride-sharing firm Fasten has launched a partnership with a prominent music venue that will direct a portion of fares to support Austin musicians and their families.

The partnership is with live music venue Beerland calls for passengers to give concertgoers $10 off their first ride with Fasten. For every new rider that uses the coupon, Fasten will donate $5 to the SIMS Foundation, which helps support Austin music professionals and their families with access and financial assistance for mental health and addiction recovery, officials said.

Located in the heart of the Red River Cultural District, Beerland is described as an intimate, old-school club for rock and punk shows, featuring pool tables and Monday rock 'n' roll karaoke. The venue is located at 711 Red River St.

“As a musician myself, I’m so proud to see Fasten support the local scene and help to ensure Austin remains the Live Music Capital of the World, especially with such a great venue like Beerland,” said Joe Deshotel, Director of Business Development for Fasten in Austin. “This is just the start of a greater commitment to the local music scene in 2018 for the Fasten brand as well.”

Beerland's downtown Austin location poses a parking issue for those headed to it, particularly on weekend nights. Ride-sharing helps mitigate that challenge, Fasten officials noted, and is exponentially more affordable than a parking ticket. It can also be a safer choice for getting home after a night out, officials added.

Added Beerland owner Richard Lynn, “We are excited to partner with Fasten to help our patrons make the safe and responsible choice to avoid drinking and driving. Plus, it's affordable and also saves you the hassle of finding a parking spot. We care about our customers – many of whom we know as friends – and we’re committed to doing our part to make the roads a safer place, not only over the holidays but throughout the year.”

SIMS Foundation Executive Director Heather Alden touted the partnership: "We are thrilled that an iconic Austin venue like Beerland and community-minded rideshare Fasten are leading the way to encourage safe and responsible rides home after a night of live music. It's gratifying to know that patrons will get home safely and their rides will directly benefit Austin musicians seeking mental health services with SIMS Foundation."

Boston-based Fasten offers a twist in the ride-sharing industry, differentiating itself from similar firms in the industry by charging drivers just 99 cents per ride as opposed to the 25 percent or more per-ride charge assessed by Uber & Lyft. As a result, riders get the lowest rates, and drivers earn more, according to Fasten officials.

Learn more about Fasten by clicking here. To download the app and start riding Fasten, click here.

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