(contributed by AFP Board Member John Trivers)
Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with Andy Rhine, Co-Owner of Bend’s Cascade Lakes Brewing, to discuss a unique fundraising event in support of the Ashland community. This May, every 6-pack of Cascade Lakes beer sold at Shop ‘n Kart will bring $1 to the Ashland Food Project. This partnership not only underscores the brewery’s commitment to community involvement but directly supports our mission to fight hunger locally.
Andy described his family’s deep commitment to philanthropy and the evolution of Cascade Lakes into a not-for-profit brewery. “Giving back has always been a core value for my family,” Andy shared. “Transforming the brewery into a not-for-profit entity was a natural step, especially following the upheavals of COVID. This change has sharpened our focus on how we can make a real impact in our community.”
This fundraiser extends beyond beer sales; it’s a simple yet impactful initiative to enhance the well-being of the communities Cascade Lakes serves. By partnering with local entities such as Shop ‘n Kart and supporting organizations like ours, Cascade Lakes underscores its commitment to meaningful community involvement.
I was both excited and somewhat surprised when this partnership was proposed. It’s not every day that a business approaches you with a fully formed plan to support your cause, especially one that aligns so perfectly with our objectives.
During our conversation, Andy emphasized how this fundraiser could serve as a template for similar collaborations, potentially inspiring other businesses to focus on community engagement. He highlighted the importance of supporting local and regional charities, noting that Cascade Lakes chooses charities that resonate with the specific communities where their products are sold.
Andy’s involvement in local community activities, like the trail runs organized by Rogue Valley Runners, connects him personally with regional causes. “It’s about finding ourselves in the community, understanding its needs, and figuring out how we can contribute,” he explained.
Cascade Lakes’ unique stance as a not-for-profit brewery allows them to reinvest their profits back into the community. This model supports charitable causes and ensures that their employees benefit from the company’s success. Andy was proud to mention the recent improvements in employee benefits and their commitment to providing compensation that exceeds industry standards.
This collaboration with Cascade Lakes Brewing is a positive model of how local businesses can use their products and services for the greater good. By linking their sales directly to charitable contributions, Cascade Lakes sets a new standard in the brewing industry, demonstrating that business success and social responsibility can indeed go hand in hand.
As the fundraiser gets underway, both our organizations are enthusiastic of its potential impact. With the involvement of Shop ‘n Kart and local community members, we are grateful for the support to the Food Project while setting a benchmark for future charitable efforts.
Andy will be doing a sampling at Ashland’s Shop ‘n Kart from 3-5pm Thursday, May 23rd. Please come on by for a taste while supporting the Food Project! Enjoy responsibly, support locally.
