SOLON — The Solon Fire Department recently took delivery of a new chainsaw. While the purchase of such a basic piece of equipment is typically routine, the manner in which this purchase was made is noteworthy as it was funded by a new grant program through Big Grove Brewery and a new beer.
“We are launching a brand new beer that’s going to be going out onto the market Friday, March 7,” said Katie Neuzil, Store Director, Big Grove Solon. “The beer is called ‘Neighborhood Beer,’ and the idea behind it is, it’s an easy- drinking lager that’s super-approachable for anybody who loves craft beer but also loves a light domestic beer.” It’s a beer that gives back.
“$1 of every case of Neighborhood Beer sold is going back into a micro-grant foundation, then those micro grants are going to be available for the communities that we are in to apply for the grants, and then that way we can give money back to the communities for small businesses, the fire department, the American Legion, the school district, sports teams; there’s just all sorts of things so it’s really unlimited in that, but also a good way for us to be continuing to impact our communities in a positive way.”
The Solon Fire Department was chosen as the first recipient, ahead of the official launch of the beer and grant program.
Greg Morris explained the all-volunteer department was in need of a new saw when they were approached by Big Grove.
“ We needed one that is a little easier to operate (it’s designed to start on the first pull, saving time when seconds count), and it’s got a wood blade on it so if we’re at a house fire and we need to cut quick, that’ll do it.”
Firefighters often cut holes in a roof to vent heat, smoke, and toxic gasses out of a burning structure, which improves visibility for the firefighters inside battling the flames, and also provides a better environment for any victims. Morris, who spearheaded the fundraising campaign for the new fire station, spoke of the tremendous support Big Grove and other establishments have provided over the years.
“Big Grove and all of the other restaurants in town have been really huge contributors to what we do. Big Grove has not forgotten their roots and where they started. And I think that’s so cool. It would be so easy now that they’re in Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and they’re going to go to Omaha. But they never forget Solon.”
“We’re excited,” Neuzil said looking forward to the official launch. “This is a good beer, its for a good cause, its easy to get behind something that tastes good and goes back and impacts people in a positive way. We’re just super-excited for this beer to launch.”
While most fundraisers have a monetary target they’re aiming for, the Neighborhood Beer Micro-Grant Program does not. Neuzil said the grants will range from $250- $1,000, but the number of grants is unlimited.
“The more Neighborhood Beer that gets bought, the more we can do to give back to the community,” she said. “Hopefully, this (the grant program) goes on forever. Hopefully, for as long as Big Grove is around, we’ll be able to continue to keep this beer available and continue to be growing communities.”
In 2024 Big Grove Brewery awarded $48,000 through six $8,000 grants to organizations in Johnson, Linn, and Polk counties through their “Big Grove for Good” grant program benefiting non-profits. Applications for that program have closed with applications now being accepted for the Neighborhood Beer Micro-Grant Program at https://biggroveforgood.com.
Where to Buy
Neighborhood Beer will be available in Big Grove’s tap rooms Friday, March 7 and in local Hy-Vee stores, other area beer retailers, and Solon’s own Sam’s Main Street Market Monday, March 10.
“We wanted to have opportunities to impact the communities the same way that they’ve helped to support us and grow us as a company, and to continue to provide good beer and good food,” said Neuzil.