The Thirsty Beaver Bar & Grill has donated a total of $13,500 to local organizations in need of economic assistance. In partnership with the Aggie Foundation, The Thirsty Beaver has donated $3,000 to the Cops and Kids program; $1,000 to the First Lutheran Church of Granville; $1,000 to Granville’s American Legion, Post 1155; $1,000 to the Granville FFA; $1,000 to the Granville Agricultural Education Department, $500 towards the Granville EDC; $2,500 total to the McHenry County food pantry; $1,500 total to Granville public school, and $2,000 to the Granville Rural Fire Department.

Dustin Frounfelter, Granville resident and owner of the Thirsty Beaver says, “I’d describe Granville as a family. We want people to feel like they belong and we want to provide support in this community. We really look to help out the youth. Growth comes from helping out one another.”

The concept of creating a community family was mirrored in statements by Tonya Hunskor, principal of Granville’s K-12 school. “These donations from local businesses and the Aggie Foundation help our school feel more like a home, and that’s important. We work really hard to make sure every child and family feel like they are welcome at our school and are an important part of our community,” stated Hunskor. The donation they received was used to cover three programs. The Backpack Buddy program was allocated $500 and offers students and families in need with backpacks full of food. Donations also help provide meals and snacks to students who may arrive early or stay late at school. Another $500 will assist the Family Night fund, with the final $500 supporting the purchase of holiday gifts for students.

“We want to close the gaps for families, whether that’s with the meal boxes or handing out gifts like we did this past week. It’s fabulous to see how these community connections have allowed us to provide something extra for our students. We can make any contribution go a long way. A partnership like this can make an immense impact for many families,” said Hunskor.

Dustin’s enthusiasm for supporting local youth is exemplified in the business’s contribution towards the Granville FFA and Agricultural Education program. Ashley Bachmeier, advisor and instructor for these students notes that the donations will assist with the purchase of classroom and shop materials as well as benches for community use. There are currently 50 active FFA members and 65 students studying agriculture in grades 7 thru 12. “Without active and supportive community members and businesses, we would not be able to attend FFA events, or stay up-to-date with technology in the classroom,” says Bachmeier.

The partnership between the Thirsty Beaver and the Aggie Foundation allows Dustin and his team to identify and work with local groups in need of economic support.