Breweries and beer events rely on the continued patronage of customer support to be successful. So, when a prosperous beer business gets the opportunity, they should be giving back. Craft Credo No. 1: Serve your community first. Craft credo No. 3: embrace philanthropy. We’d like to salute these three beer businesses for upholding our made up philosophies about craft beer.
New Belgium Brewing’s Greater Lengths videos celebrates those who go the extra mile
New Belgium Brewing Co.’s Greater Lengths video series shifts the spotlight away from the beer and onto the people it brings together. By honoring people who go the extra mile, and the untold stories behind the individuals who make up New Belgium, Greater Lengths helps to show that every journey has a great story.
“Over the years, New Belgium has collected incredible stories and we want to share some of those, from bike advocacy and the life-changing work our non-profit friends are doing in their communities, to the quirky stories of some of our employee-owners,” said Steve Porcaro, director of content and communications at New Belgium Brewing. “There are so many unique tales to be told and Greater Lengths allows us to do that.”
The first videos in the series feature the work of Boise Bicycle Project (that’s above) and stories of New Belgium employee-owners.
Boise Bicycle Project
Bikes have the power to change lives and communities, and Boise Bicycle Project showcases that. Boise Bicycle Project’s Shifting Gears program helps incarcerated women learn new bike-repair skills while providing bikes to children in the Boise community. This film highlights the work of this non-profit, which has been a Tour de Fat partner for 10 years. Over this time, New Belgium, and those who support Tour de Fat have helped raise money and awareness for Boise Bicycle Project, resulting in various programs that help get bikes, bike safety and bike education to people who need it the most.
“We’re constantly trying to figure out who doesn’t have a bicycle that needs one, so whether that’s homeless folks, refugees who are new to our community, or people who are getting out of prison who maybe have the cards stacked against them,” said Jimmy Hallyburton, executive director for Boise Bicycle Project. “What you start to realize is people are a lot more similar than different. People are often looking to be a part of something bigger. They want to make a difference. It’s grassroots at its finest.”
Employee Stories
In an ongoing series, Greater Lengths also highlights the interesting lives and stories of employee-owners at New Belgium. From back-country ski expeditions to learning how to live life on a farm, each story offers a unique tale and a window into New Belgium’s employee owners.
“Not only is New Belgium a unique place to work, but it’s also filled with fascinating co-owners who help drive our culture and our desire to make interesting beer,” continued Porcaro. “To honor that spirit, we’re shining a light on some of our most talented and interesting co-owners to tell more about who they are, what they do outside of the brewery, and why they make New Belgium such a special place to be.”
Bell’s Brewery will continue as title sponsor of the Bell’s Beer Bayview to Mackinac Race through 2019
Bell’s Brewery Inc. will return as the title sponsor of the Bell’s Beer Bayview Mackinac Race for another two years. The 94th annual race from Port Huron to Mackinac Island will set sail on July 14, 2018, marking Bell’s eighth year as presenting sponsor of the longest, consecutively-run freshwater race in the world.
“We are extremely proud to continue to sponsor this race,” said Larry Bell, president and founder of Bell’s Brewery. “It has a huge, positive impact on local economies, gives back to our community and puts a spotlight on an incredible treasure that we should all work to protect, our Great Lakes.”
More than 2,000 sailors participated in this year’s race on more than 200 boats. The economic impact of the race on the Port Huron and Mackinac Island communities is estimated between $30 and $59 million, making it one of the premiere events hosted in the state of Michigan and one with major economic impact to numerous Michigan businesses, especially those in the tourism industry.
“We have been tremendously fortunate to have Bell’s Beer as the title sponsor for the Bell’s Beer Bayview Mackinac Race,” said Hans Brieden, 2017 Bayview Yacht Club Commodore. “The entire company has embraced the race and is valued partner to Bayview Yacht Club, the sailors and the community. We look forward to the next two years and what’s next for the race with Larry, Laura and Bell’s by our side.”
More than 75,000 sailing fans, families and partygoers were expected to attend a variety of events in Port Huron leading up to the start and festivities on Mackinac Island this week.
A partnership with the Alliance for the Great Lakes was also added this year. Along with its continued support for Set Sail for Autism, the Bell’s Beer Bayview to Mackinac Race continues to support organizations that focus on giving back to the community and promote good stewardship of our resources.
Yuengling presents $100,000 donation to VFW at national convention
D.G. Yuengling & Son Inc. recognized the sacrifices that America’s veterans have made at the 118th Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) National Convention in New Orleans. Jennifer Yuengling presented a donation to the VFW for $100,000. The donation supports veterans navigating claims of earned benefits such as education, relocation and medical benefits through their life.
“We are thankful and proud of the brave and dedicated service men and women who made tremendous sacrifices and represent our country’s freedom, honor and independence,” said Jennifer Yuengling, VP of operations. “The VFW plays a vital role in supporting the many veteran and military assistance programs, which help countless veterans, service members and military family members each year.”
“We are extremely appreciative of Yuengling’s continued generosity and support. Together we will continue to ensure our nation’s service members, veterans and their families receive the assistance they’ve earned, and deserve,” said Brian Duffy, VFW National Commander.
Yuengling, presented the donation Monday during the convention. This is the second year the brewery has presented a donation at the convention. The military has always been a community, which Yuengling has a connection with and has supported on both corporate and local levels for many years. Focusing efforts on the VFW’s programs has allowed America’s Oldest Brewery to enhance that connection and make a positive impact on all veterans from the time of enlistment through separation.
The VFW offers scholarships, financial grants, employment assistance and many other services to veterans, service members and their families.
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