PINTS OVER PROFITS

What does “not-for-profit” mean?

Cascade Lakes Brewing Co. is not declaring a formal tax-exempt status such as under section 501(c)(3). Rather, Bend’s Rhine family will donate Cascade Lakes’s entire net profit to a wide range of causes in Central Oregon and beyond. This will give the ownership more flexibility in the way it distributes the brewery’s profits, and allow the team to focus on innovation and the quality of its products, rather than profits.

Who will own Cascade Lakes Brewing?

As a not-for-profit, Bend’s Rhine family will continue to own and operate the brewery, which was founded in 1994. The Rhine family — which includes Bruce and Martha, and their adult children, Andy, Esme, Charlie, and David — purchased Cascade Lakes in 2018. Andy and Esme run the day-to-day operations.

How will Cascade Lakes choose what causes to support?

The Rhine family feels passionate about many causes, but the family will generally support nonprofits focused on stewardship, conservation, and animal welfare efforts. All are causes dear to the hearts of the Rhine family.

What are some examples of nonprofits that Cascade Lakes has supported?

Among its recent charitable pursuits, Cascade Lakes has created a line of beers to support local organizations such as BrightSide Animal Shelter (Pawsitive Pale Ale), Street Dog Hero (Street Dog IPA), and the Oregon Hunters Association (Elk Camp IPA). The Rhine family have also personally served for other Central Oregon non-profits. Siblings Esme and Andy Rhine serve on the board of the Central Oregon Running Klub and are members of the Central Oregon Trail Alliance. And Bruce and Martha Rhine were among the co-founders of  Three Rivers Care for Kids. 

What does this mean for Cascade Lakes employees?

The move to a not-for-profit will be a benefit to the wonderful team at Cascade Lakes. The company recently added health benefits, paid volunteer time, and strives to pay employees better-than-industry average compensation. 

Will the switch to not-for-profit status affect the quality of Cascade Lakes’ beer?

Yes, but in a positive way. Brewing great beer has always been our focus. Under Director of Brewing Operations Ryan Schmiege, Cascade Lakes has made enormous strides in the quality of its beer. With this new philosophy, Cascade Lakes can expand its focus on innovation and the quality of its products, rather than profits.

Will there be any changes at Cascade Lakes’ Central Oregon pubs?

Cascade Lakes will continue to own and operate its 7th Street Pub in Redmond and Bend Brewpub on Bend’s Westside. Cascade Lakes is also building a new pub on Bend’s Eastside that is expected to open early in 2023. As part of the change in philosophy, our pubs will expand their roles as ideal hosts for fundraising events in support of various causes.

We will remain committed to the highest quality food and service at our pubs.