Earlier the spring, we reported on Victory Brewing Company’s expansion to a second brewing facility, and now the Downingtown, PA-based beer maker is at it again. Only this expansion isn’t about production capacity, or even, directly, beer itself. What is growing is the amount of money the company is giving back to the community and its surrounding environment, in the form of Headwaters Grants.

As part of its 15th anniversary celebration last year, Victory released Headwaters Pale Ale, named for the Brandywine River water with which it is made. But the name is more than just an homage — one penny from every bottle sold is donated to recipients of the Headwaters Grants. The 2011 grant was awarded to The Guardians of the Brandywine, who used the funding to initiate multiple clean water education programs. Victory has just extended the grant for another year.

Additionally, a second recipient was announced for 2012 — the Brandywine Valley Association, who plan to use the money to restore Little Buck Run, a stream in Parkesburg, where Victory’s second facility will be located.

“Water quality [is] of utmost importance to us,” says Victory president Bill Covaleski, “The pure water available at both locations contributes so much to the character of our beers.”

Of course, clean water is good for all plants and animals, and the fact that it makes better beer is just a bonus we humans get to enjoy. Kudos to Victory for their continued support of the environment we call home.