Back in 2017, one Community Impact Project (CIP) group — Mike Bukach, Chris Rutter, Matthew Palmer, Andrew Zimmer, and Ryan Kaercher — set their sights on supporting Columbus Humane. Their original focus was identifying inefficiencies in the organization’s donation intake process. However, as the team delved deeper, they realized the scope of the project exceeded what could realistically be addressed and measured within the limited CIP timeline.
It was during an informal brainstorming session at Land-Grant Brewing Company — where inspiration flowed alongside the beers — that Bukach had a bold idea: what if they threw a dog adoption party?
At the time, Bukach had a connection with Jackie Kemble (SP ‘23), then head of events, philanthropy, and engagement at Land-Grant. He reached out to her to ask about using the empty lot next to the brewery for a large-scale community event benefiting Columbus Humane. The concept? A lively gathering of dogs, beer, and good vibes — eventually dubbed Pups ‘n’ Pints.
Despite some initial skepticism from the team, the idea quickly gained traction. The group designed flyers, posted them around Franklinton, and created a Facebook event to spread the word.
The result was beyond anyone’s expectations. Columbus Humane rolled in with their adoption mobile and merchandise, Land-Grant contributed their newly outfitted beer truck, and half of all beer sales were donated to the cause. Over 1,000 attendees — many with dogs in tow — poured into the event over just four hours. The weather was perfect, the energy was high, and the outcome delighted everyone involved. It ended up being Land-Grant’s highest single-day event revenue at the time.
The impact of Pups ‘n’ Pints didn’t end there. Three lasting outcomes followed:
- A Legacy for Columbus Humane: The CIP group handed over the Pups ‘n’ Pints name to Columbus Humane, who continue to host similar events across Central Ohio to this day.
- A Change in State Policy: The event served as a positive example in the eventual revision of Ohio law (Section 3717.14 of the Ohio Revised Code), allowing dogs on restaurant and bar patios — a change that dog lovers and businesses alike have embraced.
- Expansion at Land-Grant: The event was also instrumental for Land-Grant, acting as a test run for expanding their outdoor space into the dynamic community hub it has become.
From a wild idea over drinks to a celebrated event with lasting community impact, Pups ‘n’ Pints is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and the occasional leap of faith.