Wilmington brewery, credit union team up to support veterans through craft beer

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington brewery and credit union are teaming up to support local veterans through a special craft beer collaboration, with a community networking event planned for Thursday evening.

REV Federal Credit Union and the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce are hosting a BizMix event at Mad Mole Brewing Thursday, Nov. 12 to celebrate Paws & Patriots, a Coastal IPA created to benefit Canines for Service.

The Wilmington-based nonprofit provides specially trained service dogs to veterans at no cost, helping them navigate daily challenges and gain greater independence.

Paws & Patriots was introduced in early October through a partnership between REV Federal Credit Union and Mad Mole Brewing.

Since its launch, the beer has been available at Mad Mole Brewing and select restaurants and retailers throughout the region.

Purchases of Paws & Patriots, whether by the pint or four-pack, help support Canines for Service.

“Honoring and giving back to veterans is an important part of REV’s mission,” said Dori Bishara, community engagement coordinator for REV Federal Credit Union. “This collaboration gives us an opportunity to raise awareness, generate support and introduce more people to the incredible work Canines for Service is doing for veterans in our community.”

Community invited to Thursday’s event

The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce’s BizMix is a monthly networking event that brings together local business and nonprofit leaders.

This month’s gathering is sponsored by REV Federal Credit Union and will highlight the partnership supporting Canines for Service.

The event will take place Thursday, Nov. 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Mad Mole Brewing, located at 6309 Boathouse Road in Wilmington.

The evening will feature live music from The SoundSiders, food available for purchase from the Gunslingers Tex-Mex food truck and giveaways provided by REV.

Mad Mole Brewing will remain open until 10 p.m.

Supporting veterans through service dogs

The beer collaboration is part of REV Federal Credit Union’s UpTheGood initiative, which focuses on strengthening communities through partnerships and charitable giving.

Canines for Service trains service dogs to assist veterans living with disabilities and other service-related challenges.

The organization provides the dogs to veterans free of charge.

Organizers say the Paws & Patriots collaboration is intended to raise awareness of that mission while encouraging local businesses and residents to support veterans in the Cape Fear region.

Community members are invited to attend Thursday evening’s event.