Locally owned and operated by Bill and Carol Smith, Dutch Bros. Coffee of Central Oregon celebrates 10 years of business. The original Third St. Bend store opened its doors on June 28, 2004. To celebrate and thank the community, all eight locations are holding a $1 day Wednesday, July 9. With the purchase of any drink for $1, proceeds raised from all eight Central Oregon Dutch Bros. stores benefit the Bend, Redmond and Sisters Habitat for Humanity.
In addition to reaching a longevity milestone, the Central Oregon franchise has also given back over half a million dollars to the community. Organizations supported over the decade include school districts in Bend/LaPine, Redmond, Sisters, The Boys & Girls Club, NeighborImpact, Healthy Beginnings and others.
“I love that Dutch Bros. gives us a platform to give back to our community,” said Bill Smith. “Being part of such a vibrant business and our spirited baristas keep us young. We are so blessed to be involved in something so fun and rewarding.”
“We see this as a great way to celebrate a milestone in our business, give back to our customers and recognize a great nonprofit in our community,” said Kaelyn Costa, community relations for Dutch Bros. Central Oregon. “Without our enthusiastic fans we wouldn’t be here today.”
Days like this are standard practice for Dutch Bros. Central Oregon, which speaks to the charitable roots of the company. The commitment to giving back is deeply engrained, from giving away free birthday drinks, to organizing company-wide fundraisers, Dutch Bros.’ fearless leader Travis Boersma sets the tone for generosity.
“To be a part of a company that believes so profoundly in giving back is rare and so fun,” said Costa.
“Bend Area Habitat is excited to partner with Dutch Bros. Central Oregon,” says, Robin Cooper Engle, community outreach manager for Bend Area Habitat for Humanity. “We encourage our local community to visit one of the five locations in Bend to help us raise funds and celebrate Dutch Bros. 10 year anniversary! Habitat and the people who partner with us help make a difference in the lives of children and adults every day.”
The Smiths employ over 70 full and part-time employees in Central Oregon, including their daughters and son-in-law. With eight stores and plans for more in the area, the Smiths hope to continue to build a thriving company that can provide jobs and continue to give back to the Central Oregon community. “We know that we would not be celebrating this day without the support of our customers, we are so grateful,” says Smith.
www.dutchbros.com/locations. Follow Dutch Bros. www.facebook.com/DutchBrosCentralOR. www.dutchbros.com.
About Bend Area Habitat for Humanity
In its 25 years, Bend Area Habitat for Humanity has served more than 500 children and adults through their homeownership and home repair programs. Bend Habitat is dedicated to providing affordable services and creating long-term sustainable change for families and individuals in Bend and Crook County.
About Redmond Habitat for Humanity
Redmond Habitat for Humanity seeks to put God’s love in action by bringing together people to build homes, communities, and hope; they envision a world where everyone has a simple, decent, and affordable place to live.
About Sisters Habitat for Humanity
Sisters Habitat for Humanity was established in 1991 and has served 54 families to date. Hundreds of volunteers help build and repair the homes, work in the Habitat Thrift and ReStore and serve on the board and committees. Habitat homes are sold to partner families at zero interest and 500 hours of sweat equity must be completed prior to move in.
