Local brewery turns pints into purpose
Nov 26, 2024
(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, inside the historic Ivywild School, a beloved local brewery is not only serving up delicious craft beers but is also giving back to the community in the process with its innovative "Benefit Beers" program.
Bristol Brewing Company was founded on a simple yet powerful idea: a love of beer and community. According to the Co-Owner Mike Bristol, "We believe that good beer brings people together."
But the passion for connecting people extended far beyond just brewing flavorful pints. They recognized the immense value of the community, which helped them grow. The brewery introduced a program that married their love for beer with giving back.
"We wanted to do something unique to help some of the nonprofits in our community. And so, we started with the Venetucci Pumpkin Ale," said Bristol. "The concept was that we would design a beer that sort of went with a nonprofit."
The goal of the Benefit Beer program was clear: every dollar earned from the sale of these special brews would go directly toward supporting local causes. Over the years, the brewery has raised more than $750,000 for various nonprofits, including Venetucci Farms, Smokebrush Foundation, and Friends of Cheyenne Cañon.
Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia OnstottCourtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia OnstottCourtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia OnstottCourtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia Onstott
The effects of the Benefit Beer program have been far-reaching. The Executive Director for the Pikes Peak Real Estate Foundation, Samuel Clark, said that Venetucci Farms faced significant challenges when the Widefield Aquifer became contaminated with PFAS. There were several years that the funds raised from the Venetucci Pumpkin Ale were the farm’s primary source of revenue, sustaining its important work. The current funds raised for Venetucci Farm will go toward updating its facilities to ensure an enjoyable and safe visit for all families.
The success of the Benefit Beer program has proven that even the smallest actions can create ripples of positive change. "When I think about it, starting something that small can really add up," said Bristol. "It’s been so rewarding to see how our efforts have made a real difference, and hopefully, it will inspire others to do similar things in their own communities."
The "Give Back Mix Pack," includes the Venetucci Pumpkin Ale, the Smokebrush Smoked Porter, and the Cheyenne Cañon Piñon Nut Brown Ale. The brewery is sold out, but there is still time to buy the 12-pack at various stores including; Coaltrain, Cheers, Colorado Liquor Outlet, and King Soopers.
"I think it's a lesson that, you know, the things that we cherish in the community need the support of everybody,” said Clark, "And in this case, it's the support of really great talent that happens to make some really great beers."