By Craig Anderson

This story has been udpated

MIDDLETOWN — For Volunteer Brewing Company co-owner Kevin Schatz, the choice was clear: Participating in the third annual Brewing for a Better Community fundraiser is a must.

That’s because proceeds from the April 27 event will benefit the nonprofit Neighborhood House, which provides an array of services in the area.

“There’s no doubt about it — taking part in this was an easy decision,” said Mr. Schatz, who owns the downtown Middletown brewery with his wife, Dawn Schatz.

“(Neighborhood House is) very active in the community. They fill a need that is desperately needed in this area, as the community continues to grow.”

Brewing for a Better Community will be hosted by New Castle County Councilman David Carter at his farm at 818 Union Church Road in Townsend.

The councilman has hosted the annual gathering since its inception in 2022, with a similar response to it as Mr. Schatz.

“Neighborhood House is one of my anchor social services organizations down here (and) deals with a lot of my people struggling with housing stability, people just having a rough time,” he said.

“We’re a rapidly growing community, and while everybody thinks of the (basic) hard infrastructure, it’s really important that we think of the (personal) infrastructure, too.”

Also taking part are Crooked Hammock Brewery, the First State Brewing Co. and JAKL Beer Works, all out of Middletown.

Alison Windle, Neighborhood House’s executive director, said proceeds are targeted for youth-centered programs, including a day care. The organization seeks to expand to a roughly 5,000-square-foot facility, which would more than double its current space.

Among its other initiatives in the Middletown, Odessa and Townsend area, Neighborhood House provides family services and housing counseling.

Ms. Windle shared thanks for the breweries.

“They put a lot of time and work into this effort, and it is very much appreciated,” she said.

“Just to see how community-minded they are that they come together and do this for a nonprofit like Neighborhood House, as well as other nonprofits, we’re really thrilled about that.”

The family-friendly event will run from 4-8 p.m. and will include locally brewed beer, live music, a barbecue and pig roast, hayrides and a bonfire with marshmallows to roast, according to organizers.

Tickets for food and activities only are available for $45. General admission tickets are $75 and include food, activities and beer tastings. There’s no charge for kids under 12, though a free ticket is still required.

For tickets and additional information, visit bit.ly/Brewing-2024.

The Middletown branch of Neighborhood House, which has been in the area nearly 40 years, is at 811 N. Broad St., Suite 219.

For information on the nonprofit, call 302-378-7217 or visit neighborhoodhse.org.