Four years ago, our family started the Lagers for Heroes program with the sole mission to honor and support our active military, veterans and their families. Since then, the Lagers for Heroes program has allowed us to partner with meaningful nonprofit organizations, including TAPS and Operation Gratitude, to make a positive impact on the military community. Through their thoughtful programs, military loved ones have received the care and support they need to live healthier, fuller lives.

This year, as we reflect on our 190^th anniversary, we knew we wanted to honor and give back to those who served in a bigger way, which is why we commemorated Veterans Day with a week-long celebration.

On Veterans Day, Yuengling and Team Red, White and Blue (RWB) hosted “WOD for Warriors” at the Yuengling Center in Tampa, Florida. “WOD (Workout of the Day) for Warriors” is Team RWB’s annual community-driven workout movement hosted by gyms across the country. This event is an opportunity to support and raise donations for America’s veterans, while participating in functional fitness, competing for prizes, and engaging with those in the community. All proceeds from the event directly supports Team RWB’s community programs that unite veterans through camaraderie.

I had the honor of participating in Team RWB’s Old Glory Relay last year and was thrilled to attend “WOD for Warriors” and celebrate yet another year of this successful partnership. In appreciation of the partnership, a check in the amount of $50,000 was donated on behalf of the Yuengling family to Team RWB for their ongoing commitment to creating quality relationships and positive experiences for veterans.

To continue to honor our veterans, my sister Sheryl also traveled to Indianapolis to celebrate our partnership with the Indiana Pacers and Hoops for Troops Night.  NBA Cares “Hoops for Troops” is a year-round initiative led by the NBA, its teams and players in collaboration with the Department of Defense, USO, TAPS and other military and veteran-serving organizations to honor active and retired service members and their families. As part of the partnership, Sheryl had the privilege of serving as the Honorary Scorer for the Pacers’ game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Throughout the night, military personnel and their families were recognized for their selfless acts in protecting our country.

To cap off an amazing week, we also presented the 2019 Yuengling Veteran Award to Jerry Brown, who is currently serving for the Florida National Guard, at USF’s “Salute to Service” football game. This is the third scholarship award from Yuengling to help aspiring veterans participate in USF’s Brewing Arts Program, an online program that provides participants with the foundational knowledge and hands-on training for a successful career in the craft brewing industry.

We are humbled to have the opportunity to support our veterans and want to thank them for their devoted service and tremendous sacrifices for our country. Thank you, also, to our various partners who help to shine a positive light and improve the lives of thousands of veterans and their families.
–   Jen Yuengling