At some point in the late ’90s, two words adorned the back of a Dogfish Head baseball cap for sale at the original Rehoboth Beach brewpub: Beer & Benevolence.
What was a relatively simple phrase at the time has grown into the brewery’s philanthropic arm, becoming a driving force for good in the Delaware community. Much like Dogfish Head itself, the idea started small and has grown into something pretty impressive over time.
The Beer & Benevolence program is how Dogfish gives back, right in its own backyard. Working with local nonprofits, the program supports initiatives that promote the arts, protect the environment and strengthen the community. Think sponsoring the annual History Book Festival in Lewes, installing bike repair stations along local bike trails, building homes with Habitat for Humanity and raising more than $1.2 million for environmental organizations.
Those efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.
In June, Dogfish Head’s Beer & Benevolence program was named the corporate recipient of the 2026 Delaware Governor’s Volunteer Service Award. The annual award recognizes those who “exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and demonstrate the positive impact service has on communities throughout our state,” according to the Delaware State Office of Volunteerism.
“While Dogfish Head may have accepted this honor, it truly belongs to all those coworkers and guests who have volunteered their time, supported a cause or helped us bring our community partnerships to life,” said Jason King, Dogfish Head’s Beer & Benevolence leader. “It is a recognition that reflects something we all have built over time, not a single event, but a consistent commitment to showing up for our community. When done together, small actions create lasting impact, so let’s keep going!”
The fun doesn’t stop there.
Dogfish Head hosts Benevolence Nights at Brewings & Eats, where 10% of sales benefit a selected nonprofit partner. The brewery also creates Benevolence beers, collaborating with local organizations on a recipe and style before donating a portion of the proceeds after the beer’s release.
If you like the sound of that, you’re in luck.
On Tuesday, July 21, Dogfish Head will host a Benevolence Night benefiting the Freeman Arts Pavilion from 4 to 9 p.m. The brewery also recently released Sun Set List, a collaboration with the Freeman Arts Pavilion celebrating its new concert venue.
Sun Set List is a golden ale brewed with jasmine flowers and chamomile, weighing in at 4.5% ABV. Essentially, it’s the ultimate concert companion. It tastes like a summer breeze and makes you feel just fine.
Sun Set List is available in cans and on draft while supplies last.
Drink good. Do good. Feel good.
