Bravo Alpha

Bravo Alpha Initiative

There is more work to do

ravo Alpha has done so much good in the New Bern community and beyond, but founder and retired Marine Dustin Canestorp cannot bring himself to settle on the past.

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.

In a YouTube video listed on bravoalpha. org, Canestorp talks about leaving Iraq in pursuit of his “American Dream,” which was enjoying the beer brewing process and doing something impactful with it.

The outcome of following Canestorp’s dream has been measurable. According to bravoalpha.org, the Bravo Alpha Foundation has awarded 54 scholarships, nearly $300,000 in aid and support to charitable causes and has helped with nearly $5 million in economic impact.

Bravo Alpha has done it through community engagement that has included its Pathfinders program that uses physical activity events such as running and biking to bring together people and communities. It also raises funds through beer festivals and a commercial beer competition named Beer Wars.

Beer Army’s beer has been featured in events across the state, the region and the United States. Beer Army Burger Company

Bhouses the beer, trivia nights and donates to a variety of charities. Even with all the success, Canestorp has his mind on greater things. He is an open book when it comes to discussing his battle with Post-Traumatic Stress. He refuses to use the word “disorder,” saying that it is an injury. He doesn’t want to do a disservice to those, who like himself, who have put their lives on the line for the country. But this isn’t about Canestorp, so he and Bravo Alpha Director Cristi Smith are redirecting the organization’s mission to do more for veterans, first responders and 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 events where beer is served, but true satisfaction will come in aiding those who literally have put their lives at risk. “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.”

By Jessie H. Nunery

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