Community Beer Works, in partnership with the Pride Center of Western New York, has announced the third-annual launch of PRIDE Ale. $1 from each pint and 4-pack sold of the limited-edition brew will go directly to the Pride Center of Western New York.

A launch party for the beer was held on May 19 at CBW’s flagship brewery & taproom to commemorate the brew and set the stage for Buffalo’s annual pride week, which is scheduled to begin later in the month. 

“We’re honored to partner with the Western New York Pride Center for the third year in a row to continue supporting Buffalo’s LGBTQIA2S+ community”,” said Community Beer Works President and Co-Founder Chris Smith. “Everything starts with community—from the beers we brew to the environment we foster inside, and outside, our taproom. That is why we’ve made it our mission to support our friends and family in the LGBTQ+ community any way that we can by making our efforts inclusive and engaging. Cheers to that!”

“Every can of PRIDE Ale that is cracked symbolizes support towards Western New York’s LGBTQIA2S+ community,” said Kelly Craig, executive director of the Pride Center of Western New York. “Thank you to Community Beer Works for establishing spaces that help us feel safe and accepted, and for their work in creating opportunities that advance the Pride Center of Western New York’s mission.”

Beginning at 5 p.m., the PRIDE Ale launch party featured pours of the limited-edition brew. Members of the Pride Center of Western New York were on-site to discuss upcoming events, provided services and other resources for guests looking to learn more. Deals for select brews, including PRIDE Ale, were available throughout the evening.  

PRIDE Ale is New England style pale ale. Its hazy, citrus-forward profile and light mouthfeel make this a drinkable beer for all to enjoy. Proceeds earned from beer sales will go to advancing the program and services offered by The Pride Center of Western New York. The beer will be available for retail sale on May 29 at Wegmans, CBW’s flagship taproom and at supporting events.

Branding for PRIDE Ale uses the “Gilbert” typeface, developed with NewFest (LGBTQ+ Media) and NYC Pride to honor the memory of Gilbert Baker, the original designer of the pride flag. Baker was both an LGBTQ+ activist and artist and was known for helping friends create banners for marches. 

Most recently, CBW announced a second 5,260-square-foot location will be opened in the heart of the Elmwood Village by the end of Fall 2023. The new spot with have a heightened focus on beer and food pairings complete with park-friendly entrees and to-go options. 

CBW was founded with a mission to celebrate and revitalize Western New York’s local beer-brewing culture. Since the first beer was poured, the company has brewed more than 300 types of beers, built a 13,000 sq/ft brewery and taproom, designed a monthly subscription service and rewards program, and launched a beer-delivery/pick-up program.

For more information, upcoming beer releases and taproom hours, visit CommunityBeerWorks.com.