Pints with a purpose: 7 Michigan breweries that give back

Raise a glass to generosity when you stop for a beer (or two) at these charitable Michigan breweries. 

Do you like your beer with a side of philanthropy? We’re spoiled to have so many incredible breweries in Michigan, from stalwart spots in the Upper Peninsula to up-and-coming companies in Metro Detroit. And while it’s hard to find a pint of Great Lakes State-made beer that’s not wonderful, some of Michigan’s breweries pair their refreshing pours with community outreach. From charity beer runs to monthly fundraisers, there’s plenty of goodness (and ale) to go around. Here are seven inspiring Michigan breweries that pay it forward.

1. The Mitten Brewing Company

527 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids’ Mitten Brewing Company is a local favorite on the city’s west side, offering everything from specialty pizzas to giant pretzels to (you guessed it) delicious Michigan-brewed beer. The brewery features a fun vintage baseball-inspired theme, but its real shining achievement is its dedication to supporting nonprofits throughout West Michigan.

Since 2012, The Mitten—along with its accompanying charitable wing, Mitten Foundation—has proudly contributed upwards of $500,000 to deserving organizations. Sounds like a good excuse to rack up a sizable tab filled with pizza and beer, if you ask us.

2. Bell’s Brewery

355 E Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo is one of the most famous breweries in Michigan (if not the United States), earning countless accolades for its beloved Bell’s Two Hearted and Oberon Ales. And while mouthwatering IPAs are worth celebrating, Bell’s Inspired Giving Program is exceptional.

The program reflects the brewery’s stated belief that “business and beer are powerful tools to bridge our differences, inspire action from a place of shared values and shared responsibility, and strengthen our sense of community.” For every barrel of beer sold at Bell’s, the organization donates one dollar to a local cause. What’s not to love?

3. Griffin Claw Brewing Company 

575 S Eaton Street, Birmingham

With a welcoming outdoor patio and a menu featuring burgers alongside plenty of beer on tap, there’s a whole lot to appreciate at Griffin Claw Brewing Company in Birmingham—and its dedication to community outreach is the icing on the cake.

In 2021, the brewery kicked off a collaborative beer initiative called the TRI-21 Project. TRI-21 helps breweries worldwide implement awareness and fundraising initiatives to benefit GiGi’s Playhouse, an organization that provides programming for individuals with Down syndrome. For Griffin Claw, community extends far beyond the Metro Detroit area.

4. Watermark Brewing Company

5781 St Joseph Ave., Stevensville

Is there anything more satisfying than a crisp, cold beer after a long run? Watermark Brewing Company in Stevensville hosts a twice-monthly Charity Beer Run, with a different charity benefiting each month. The structure is simple, but its impact is huge: participants contribute $6 to the designated charity and receive a pour from Watermark after completing a 5K route.

Walkers and runners alike are encouraged to take part, so don’t worry if you’re not a fan of jogging—the event is more about connection and camaraderie than serious sprinting. Rest your legs in the brewery’s airy beer garden with a bite from one of Watermark’s rotating on-site food trucks.

5. Saugatuck Brewing Company

2948 Blue Star Hwy, Douglas

Saugatuck Brewing Company is a popular West Michigan stop, especially during the bustling summer months when the area’s beaches and eclectic shops draw crowds—with good reason, as Saugatuck is arguably one of the most charming small towns in Michigan.

But beyond its array of unique beer flavors (we’re looking at you, Peanut Butter Porter and Neapolitan Milk Stout), Saugatuck Brewing does great work for the environment with its Lake Street Light Lager. In collaboration with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the brewery raises money for lake sturgeon conservation with the sale of every Lake Street can or pour. Nature (and beer) enthusiasts, this is the stop for you.

6. Blackrocks Brewery 

424 N 3rd Street, Marquette

The next time you find yourself in the far reaches of the Upper Peninsula, make a stop in Marquette for a sip at Blackrocks Brewery. This beloved microbrewery is a hit with college students, locals, and travelers for its laid-back vibe and expansive beer menu.

Blackrocks lists “giving back” as one of its core company beliefs—and it lives up to this value by donating to local charities and organizations. Interested parties can simply fill out a donation request form on the brewery’s website detailing worthy causes for consideration, though we’re sad to report that Blackrocks can’t donate beer!

7. Oracle Brewing Company

122 N Michigan Ave., Saginaw

If you’ve never spent time at Oracle Brewing in Saginaw, make it a stop during your next Michigan beer road trip. In addition to its delicious drinks, this down-to-earth locale hosts an array of community events, from a silent book club to trivia nights and crafty gatherings. To top off its welcoming vibe, Oracle proudly promotes its Pints for Positive Change program. Every month, the brewery selects a charitable cause in the Saginaw area to receive a portion of its profits—so visitors can feel good about settling in for a round (or two or three).

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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