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Saluting Pioneers of the Beverage Industry

National United Affiliated Beverage Association (NUABA) is a national association of minority-owned retail beverage operations. 

Formed in 1976 by a merger between NABA and the NUBA, the organization provides a forum and a power base for cooperative action by minority retailers. Over the years, NUABA has grown dramatically. Every state in the union is now represented. NUABA membership accounts for over $30 billion in product transcriptions each year. Products include not only beers, wines and liquors, but also a full line of beverage related items such as snacks, juices,tobacco and other sundries. 

The organization has many objectives, but they can all be summarized under one broad goal to leverage the spending power vested in their businesses by black consumers to gain broader opportunities for all segments of the minority of community in all spheres of American life. This means that NUABA is committed to political, social, and economic change based on reciprocity. Many of the products distributed by NUABA members depend on the black consumer for their continued sales support, the manufactures of these products must reinvest in minority development. NUABA provides a vehicle for accomplishing this.                 
   The Eastern Division is one of the big arms of NUABA. It bridges cities from Maine through Virginia with more than 1,500 members and a potential od 15,00 throughout that region. Joseph T.Finn is president and CEO of this progressive division. A resident of Bensalem, Pa., his great love and dedication to children is reflected in his daily work in the Bucks County Schools where as a Counselor he is the cooperative work and school placement coordinator. As well, Mr. Finn is a twenty-year, retired Air Force Veteran.

The Shield Foundation was born out of the desire of the National United Affiliated Beverage Association/Eastern Division, to do good in the communities in which its members did business. The purpose of the Foundation, when established in 1983, is the rock upon which it continues to build, the social and economic trends of the organization's customers and membership. The three-fold purpose of the Shield Foundation is: 
    To provide support services for disadvantaged persons. 
    To acknowledge individual accomplishment and outstanding contributions in the arenas of business and human services.
    to provide the beverage industry with competent service and executive personnel. 

The National United Affiliated Beverage Association/Eastern Division believes that a responsible member of society must assume a measure of accountability to those who populate that community. The Shield Foundation will aid this association to better carry out its role in providing services.

This Pioneer Salute Dinner, which will be an annual event, is the first fund raiser for the Shield Foundation. Profits will be used to establish a scholarship fund and allow NUABA to participate in needed human service programs. We are grateful for your presence and this kickoff help.

Joseph T. Finn, President and General Chairman