CCPS, Ale-8 partnership rooted in shared community passion
- Shanda Crosby
- a few seconds ago
- 3 min read
Sheila Frye fondly remembers having an Ale-8 with friends at all of the milestone moments in her youth.
Now the Clark County native is thrilled to be a part of one of the school district's most monumental partnerships.
The collaboration between Ale-8 One Bottling Co. and CCPS – two of Winchester’s most cherished institutions – is entering its second year with powerful momentum and a grateful community.
“Ale-8 has donated to our school system for many years and we were looking for a way to help in a larger capacity,” said Ms. Frye, Ale-8's Community Outreach Manager and a Clark County native.
She reached out to Superintendent Dustin Howard and the magic began.
"We are ecstatic about our partnership with Ale -8," Mr. Howard said. "This company is a pillar in our community and the standard for what a local business can become by being Clark County, CCPS, and Winchester proud."
With CCO Brandon Watkins and Athletic Director Terry Yeast overseeing the logistics, the partnership grew into something bigger than either side imagined.
"Our partnership with Ale-8 has been a wonderful experience and has been vital to helping support our schools, our athletic programs, and our community," said Chief Operations Officer Brandon Watkins.
Clark County's most beloved drink is now available at nearly every district event, and this has been fabulous news for our students, staff, families, and extended community.
"Whether it was concessions for all sporting events, district tournaments, KHSAA state championship events, teacher appreciation, or fall festivals, everyone has been able to reap the benefits," Ms. Frye said.
The collaboration has been a tremendous boost to our athletic programs, allowing teams to provide extra supplies, equipment, and uniforms, easing the burden for parents and booster organizations.
"From the minute we became partners, this relationship has been amazing; everyone works together and makes it happen," said Ms. Frye. "I have had parents tell me that what we have done to support their child’s sport has been phenomenal."
As a way to say thank you, GRC Baseball Coach Eddie Brooks incorporated the Ale-8 logo on the team's new City Connect uniforms. "That was very touching," said Ms. Frye. "To top it off, I was asked to throw an opening pitch and I was proud to do so."
The personal connections Clark County residents have with their cherished Ale-8, similar to Ms. Frye's own memories, is what makes this collaboration so special.
"To see the joy and smiles on people’s faces and to hear the stories that people recall from their childhood or special moments in their lives that Ale-8 was a part of makes me emotional," said Ms. Frye. "Some of my most precious and treasured memories from my life involve Ale-8 and sometimes bring tears. Working with the school system has been a long time goal and to watch it come to fruition has been amazing.”
For Ale-8-One, it's all about giving back. “Ale-8 has given to our community (and many others) for years and years, but they have never sought out recognition and remain this way today," Ms. Frye said. "Ale-8 is still family-owned and operated and will soon reach 100 years in operation."
“We hope this partnership lasts for many, many more years," Ms. Frye said. "As long as Ale-8 is able, we will continue to donate. Our children are the future and we want to always support and invest in their success."
Mr. Howard echoes that sentiment. "I want to give Ale-8 a deep heartfelt thank you," he said. "I look forward to continuing growing greatness with them here in Clark County."
