House of Schwan understands the importance of good corporate citizenship. Our philanthropic approach towards our community has deep roots. It dates back to 1960 when we embraced Anheuser-Busch’s slogan, “making friends is our business”. It was understood from the beginning that part of doing business was to give back everything possible to Wichita and the surrounding communities. Our attitude is that Wichita is a great place to live and work and we want to make a positive difference wherever we can.
It began with a small investment in Wichita State University in the early 60’s. Then in 1979, House of Schwan became the major sponsor of the Wichita Wings Soccer Team. Next, in 1986, we were asked to sponsor the Old Town Chili Cook-Off. The following year Barry Schwan created a special events department to oversee and develop sponsorships and support organizations that fit the business plan. Since then we have sponsored festivals & events, helped non-profits raise money for their causes, served on boards (community, academic and professional), and sponsored every minor league sports team in the city. We have been involved in some form with over 250 organizations.
The name a few, below is a partial list of boards & organizations the management team/company has been affiliated with:
Kansas Beer Wholesalers Association
Kansas Humane Society
Kansas Racing & Gaming Commission
National Beer Wholesalers Association
Tallgrass Film Festival
Via Christi Foundation
Wichita Area Chamber of Commerce
Wichita Children’s Home
Wichita Community Foundation
Wichita River Festival
Wichita State University Foundation
Wichita State University Student Athlete Scholarship Organization (SASO)
Wichita Wagon Masters
YPO
Sports Activities (currently):
81 Speedway
Ambassador to Wichita State Athletics
Wichita Thunder Hockey
Wichita Wild
Wichita Wingnuts
Other Non-Profits
Big Brother & Sisters
Catholic Charities
Exploration Place
Mid-West Beer Fest
Wichita River Festival & Autumn & Art
Wichita Wagonmasters Chili Cook-Off
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