Bravo Alpha Initiative
There is more work to do By Jessie H. Nunery
B
ravo Alpha has done so much good
to
the
Bravo
Alpha
houses the beer, trivia nights and donates
in the New Bern community and
Foundation has awarded 54 scholarships,
beyond, but founder and retired Marine
nearly $300,000 in aid and support to
Even with all the success, Canestorp has
Dustin Canestorp cannot bring himself to
charitable causes and has helped with
his mind on greater things. He is an open
settle on the past.
nearly $5 million in economic impact.
book when it comes to discussing his battle
He knows there is more work to do. Bravo Alpha started as a beer idea, grew into sharing tasty beverages with those in Canestorp’s circle and ultimately has become a nonprofit entity that has grown into sending kids to college, helping public citizens and organizations and bringing together
communities
through
beer,
physical fitness and more. “We have been hugely successful, and our events have represented the best of what New Bern is — but I honestly had lost some fulfillment,” Canestorp said. Originally started as Beer Army, the 501c(3) took shape when Canestorp served in the Marine Corps in Iraq and dealt with the loss of his friend, Capt. Todd Seibert.
Bravo Alpha has done it through
to a variety of charities.
with Post-Traumatic Stress.
community engagement that has included
He refuses to use the word “disorder,”
its Pathfinders program that uses physical
saying that it is an injury. He doesn’t want to
activity events such as running and biking
do a disservice to those, who like himself,
to bring together people and communities.
who have put their lives on the line for the
It also raises funds through beer festivals
country.
and a commercial beer competition named Beer Wars.
But this isn’t about Canestorp, so he and Bravo Alpha Director Cristi Smith are
Beer Army’s beer has been featured in
redirecting the organization’s mission to
events across the state, the region and the
do more for veterans, first responders and
United States. Beer Army Burger Company
othrs. The statistics that show 22 military veterans per day take their own lives is something that will now push the Bravo Alpha Foundation. Yes, they will smile and celebrate during
In a YouTube video listed on bravoalpha.
events where beer is served, but true
org, Canestorp talks about leaving Iraq in
satisfaction will come in aiding those who
pursuit of his “American Dream,” which
literally have put their lives at risk.
was enjoying the beer brewing process and doing something impactful with it. The outcome of following Canestorp’s dream has been measurable. According
44
bravoalpha.org,
“I really don’t need any affirmation,” Canestorp said. “I like to see people pay it forward. I’m more concerned with making things better.”
