Nonprofits invited to share the tip jar at Lawson’s
July 13, 2022 | By Waterbury Roundabout 
In August 2021, Lawson's Sunshine Fund supported Dragonheart Vermont which works with breast cancer survivors. Photo by Neal Hayes
Lawson’s Finest Liquids has announced that it is now accepting applications from Vermont nonprofit organizations to get on the company’s 2023 Sunshine Fund calendar.
Created in 2018 to assist nonprofits that support the environment and the people of Vermont, the Sunshine Fund is a key part of the Waitsfield brewer’s Social Impact Program that’s donated more than $926,000 to 62 organizations.
Last year the fund supported a dozen nonprofits raising a total of $239,832. This year it will double the number of organizations it funds, according to the company announcement.
Applications may be submitted online now for the 2023 program as the company schedules organizations it will support across the calendar for next year.
The program essentially directs funds from taproom and retail store patrons to local nonprofits.
Lawson’s boasts that it provides staff with “a generous living wage” and benefit package. This allows the company to accept donations from customers – in lieu of tips – for the Sunshine Fund.
“All of the money raised through the Sunshine Fund goes directly to Vermont-based nonprofit organizations,” the company explains.
Sharing those proceeds extends the brewery’s reach into the community to boost nonprofit organizations that benefit local residents. “By working together, we can make great strides in enhancing the quality of life for the people and environment that make living in Vermont special,” said company co-owner Karen Lawson.
Each organization chosen gets put “on tap” to receive the donations for a designated time period. Last year, for example, the mental health organization Pathways Vermont received $10,768; another $31,822 went to Dragonheart Vermont, a group working with breast cancer survivors through boating, teamwork and fitness.
Other organizations that have benefitted from the program include the Peace & Justice Center of Vermont, The Kelly Brush Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, Vermont Foodbank and the Vermont Veterans Fund. A full list is on the company website.
Priority is given to Mad River Valley and Washington County nonprofits that focus on healthy communities, food and economic security, natural resource protection and sustainable recreation, the company says.
The application deadline for the 2023 program is Aug. 31 at 5 p.m. Find more information about the company’s Social Impact Program and the Sunshine Fund, including the application online at lawsonsfinest.com/sip/.