Giving back by drinking beer

Corporate social responsibility has either been thought of as a company truly wanting to help others or just another marketing ploy to grab customers. Either way it still helps whatever charity that is involved with the company. The idea of CSR has been spreading as it can be seen being used by almost all business sectors. The beer industry is no exception. Many breweries have specific charities they are affiliated with while others do not have a permanent one. Whether it is helping to clean up the environment or battle some horrendous disease, breweries have been trying to help our society.
I could be a cynic and say that these breweries don't even care about the non-profit they are raising money for or volunteering at and they are only doing it for good publicity. I don't think that is the case though. For those breweries who help local non-profits in their area, they are helping to build a stronger community around them. They realize that there is a need in their community and they are trying to help in a way which is beneficial to them as well. A brewing companies relationship with a non-profit is beneficial for both groups. After working at various non-profits any help from a for profit organization is very much appreciated. Not only does this relationship bring in donations for the non-profit, but it also free PR for them as well. Another added benefit is that the consumer can feel good about buying that more expensive craft beer 12 pack, because they know that some of that money will go to help a non-profit.
Hopefully CSR is not a fad which will fade away, but will actually help to create a stronger sense of community or responsibility for all. I know this is quite optimistic, but this mindset is needed for any kind of change to happen.