By Katy Snyder, JVA Consulting

Many of you have probably heard of Renegade Brewing Company, a recently opened brewery in the Santa Fe Arts District that is quickly gaining traction in Denver’s craft brew scene. Renegade took two medals at the Colorado State Fair this year, a silver for its Another Thrill Imperial Porter, and a bronze for its Hardly Wine Barleywine, and also competed in this year’s Great American Beer Festival (GABF).

Katy Snyder with Renegade owners Khara and Brian O’Connell.

What you may not know is that owner and Chief Beer Officer, Brian O’Connell, is a former JVA staff member (and good friend) who has brought his passion for the nonprofit sector into his business model at the brewery.

Renegade regularly donates its beer and space to good causes, recently donating to the Kegs for Cal-Wood Education Center event, a fundraiser to raise money for the center’s environmental learning program. It has also donated beer to Swallow Hill Music Association, the American Diabetes Association, Brain Tumor Society and Slow Food Denver. In addition, they have made cash donations to organizations close to their hearts, including: MS Society and the Cystic Fibrosis Society.

Renegade also occasionally hosts events for local nonprofit organizations. Next week, it will be hosting a benefit for the Denver Young Nonprofits Professional Network (YNPN). Called “Kegs for a Kause,” the benefit will be held at the brewery on November 7. For $30, you can enjoy bottomless Renegade beer (a deal in itself!) and appetizers with the proceeds going to YNPN. Click here to sign up.

In keeping with its support of local organizations, Renegade also keeps it local with its food selection. While it does not have a kitchen, it plays host to a regular rotation of local food trucks who deliver some of the best Denver street food to patrons right outside Renegade’s front door. Regulars include Quiero Arepas, Alvie’s Eats and Chef Driven.

Along with promoting local nonprofits and eateries, Renegade is also committed to making its beer-making efforts greener. At present, it recycles the spent grain from the brewing process by donating it to a local rancher who feeds it to his animals. More green projects are in the works, according to Brian.

Renegade recently extended its hours to include Mondays, so you can now enjoy an Una Mas Mexican Amber or a Ryeteous Rye IPA any day of the week, and you can feel good doing it! You might say we’re a little biased, but we think this is one of the best things to happen to Denver in a long time (and I am not just saying this because they let me pour my own beer!).

Renegade Brewing is located at 925 W 9th Ave.

Find them at www.facebook.com/renefngadebrewing or twitter: @renegadebrewing, or give them a call at 720.401.4089