There is something special about a room full of people working toward a common goal—laughing, connecting, and building community one piece at a time. In Holdrege, that is exactly what is happening during Sip & Solve puzzle nights. A unique partnership between the Don Sjogren Community YMCA and Lost Way Brewery is bringing people together in unexpected and meaningful ways.
A PARTNERSHIP ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
At the heart of these gatherings is a partnership built on shared values. Feeling the pull to connect with the community in a new way, Lost Way Brewery Manager Jessica Kraus reached out to local nonprofits to find ways to give back. As a business built on connection, Jessica said, “We try to infuse ourselves in the community and try to give back as much as possible.” She continued, “We want to get people in seats, but we also want to do good for the community and raise awareness for nonprofits around us that also do a lot for the community.”
What started as a simple idea quickly grew into something more meaningful. Don Sjogren Community YMCA Youth & Family Director Micki Fisher commented, “Jessica reached out and said they had an idea of doing events that helped local nonprofits.” Together, the two organizations set out to create something the community could truly be a part of, and the idea for Sip & Solve puzzle nights was born.
BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
From the very first event, it was clear these nights were about more than just puzzles. The first Sip & Solve event brought in 9 different teams, each made up of four people. “We had friends sign up together, families join, and even businesses get teams together,” shared Micki. The event quickly became a space where people from all walks of life could connect. “It’s really cool to see all the ages and stages and all the different places people are coming from to show their support,” shared Jessica. That kind of turnout highlights the growing desire for simple, meaningful ways to gather. The event’s rapid popularity even shocked Jessica and the brewery staff. “Having an entirely packed tap room on a Monday night was a pretty cool feeling,” she said.
Adding to the event’s impact, Lost Way Brewery donates a portion of sales back to the YMCA on event nights. Jessica shared, “We donate 15% of our draft sales back to the YMCA during Puzzle nights. And we encourage people, even if they’re not there to puzzle, to still come and support local businesses and nonprofits.” But the impact of these events didn’t stop when the night ended.
IMPACT BEYOND THE EVENT
That growing sense of connection inspired the YMCA to find even more opportunities to engage the community. “We want to be the hub of the community,” shared Micki. Honing in on that value of social connection, the YMCA wanted to foster even more ways for people to connect. Building on the popularity of the Sip & Solve events, the YMCA set up community puzzle stations. “I feel like sometimes people just want a place to belong and be included,” Micki shared. “Having community puzzles is just another way the Y can welcome members and give them a social option.” Whether Sip & Solve events or community puzzle stations, each piece of these partnerships continues to build toward something greater.
Through creativity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to community, the partnership between Lost Way Brewery and the YMCA is doing more than hosting events—it’s creating spaces where people feel connected and valued. Whether it’s around a puzzle table, at a local business, or within the walls of the Y, these moments are a powerful reminder that strong communities are built when people come together with purpose.