There are some amazing people in the craft beer community. I’ve enjoyed meeting countless people that are living out their passion for great beer. For many, the ability to work in craft beer is such a blessing that they want to use their success and influence to do good in their communities. Craft beer giving back is a critical part of many brewery’s culture and business plan.
A great example of craft beer giving back is MadTree in Cincinnati, Ohio. I’ve highlighted them a few times in the past. One of my more popular articles was about their grand opening that attracted 15,000 people in one day. That article gives a brief background of the brewery so go read it. This brewery loves brewing great beer and also creating an amazing culture for the employees and customers. Part of this includes helping those in the community. They work with a handful of different charities on an ongoing basis. One of these charities is Starfire.
Related Post: Why 15,000 People Went To A Brewery Grand Opening
MadTree Partners With Starfire
In Cincinnati, it seems like there are a ton of charities. I love that about my city; there really is a feeling of community and belonging. Many are giving back on a regular basis to help make this a great place for everyone to live. Some of these organizations are large and have lots of press while others work in the background. But they all have their place and purpose. Starfire is a small organization that is doing meaningful work one person at a time. In their own words:
Starfire is a visionary organization working to build better lives for people with disabilities. The data is clear; people with disabilities grow increasingly lonely and isolated as adults. Working with one person and their family at a time, Starfire connects people to relationships and uncovers a person’s talents and passions – so they can thrive in their communities alongside their neighbors.
Check out this short video that helps explain their mission and purpose.
Starfire has a total staff of only 20 people; 12 of which work directly with the 75 adult clients. Their focus is providing them with full lives. This includes giving them purpose through activities, work and relationships. By connecting them with programs that fit their interests and skills, they are able to be active, contributing members of their community. Check out this video of how MadTree and Starfire work together.
My first exposure to Starfire was a post on Facebook regarding a craft beer event called Deschutes Street Pub (more details in a future article). The proceeds from this event will benefit Starfire. The event sounded fun and the charity looked amazing so I was emailed their Corporate Relations and Event Coordinator, Olivia Cook, to learn more. Before I knew it, I was meeting with the team and learning how I can become more involved.
Why Craft Beer Giving Back Is So Important
One of my favorite things to say is craft beer is about more than just the beer. For me, it always comes back to the people – the community. What is more community focused than local charities? Craft beer giving back connects all of us with the community. It shows that craft breweries want a stronger, more inclusive city that also loves craft beer.
And think of it this way, for those that do not know much about craft beer, there is a chance that their first exposure to a brewery might be through a charity. Just imagine showing up to a charity event and seeing a brewery listed as a sponsor. And that brewery not only paid for the sponsorship but also provided people to help execute the event. I think that person will give their beer (and craft beer) a shot. That is powerful.
Giving our time and energy to worthy causes is admirable work. I am proud to say that Cincinnati has many craft breweries giving back through the support of charities. These organization thrive when corporate partners get involved. It provides a way to get their message out as well as provide more funding and volunteers to do the work.
My challenge to you would be to find out which organizations are being aided by craft beer and get involved. Or find a charity that you want to support and lobby your local brewery to step up to support them. You will be doing good work in your community and probably getting to know your craft beer community even better.
Where Do You See Craft Beer Giving Back In Your Community?
One thought on “Craft Beer Giving Back: MadTree Partners With Starfire To Make A Difference”