Coffee is a life line that many college students use to wake up early for class and stay up late to finish homework. And, some students simply drink it for pleasure between classes. Especially during the fall season, a hot cup of Joe is very appealing. Whatever the reason for indulgence, National Coffee Day at The Human Bean just gave you one more excuse to enjoy a cup or two.

The Northern Colorado locations of The Human Bean drive-thru coffee business are taking National Coffee Day, which is Sept. 29, to the next level. While many chains nationwide plan to offer discounts and freebies, this is one promotion that hopes to make a difference that hangs around once the caffeine buzz wears off.

The chain plans to celebrate by donating proceeds to help support the United Way, an internationally recognized nonprofit that aims to build stronger communities. United Way provides volunteer opportunities, creates educational programs for children and families and offers relief during emergency situations.

One hundred percent of all drip coffee sales for the day will be donated to the local divisions of the nonprofit in Larimer and Weld counties. United Way representatives will also be featured as guest baristas from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to serve guests themselves.

“They come and talk to customers and see where the money comes from,” said Rachel Street, The Human Bean coffee truck employee and senior at CSU.

Street said The Human Bean is a very philanthropic coffee chain, hosting promotions like this throughout the year, including a collaboration with the organization Soccer Without Borders and a Pink Out event to support breast cancer awareness.

“Social media definitely helps,” Street said. “Fun things always get more people out and excited about the coffee.”

Specialty drink sales will not be donated. Although The Human Bean offers many specialty lattes, drip coffee is expected to be the popular choice on Thursday, as customers like to see their purchase help the cause at hand.

“United Way does incredible work to reduce poverty in our Northern Colorado community,” said Frank Sherman, owner of The Human Bean, in a press release about the event. “It is our pleasure to support them in any way we can.”

All eight Northern Colorado locations of The Human Bean will participate in the event. This includes locations in Greeley, La Salle, Loveland and the three locations in Fort Collins at 821 N. College Ave., 1822 S. College Ave. and the coffee truck located on campus near Moby Arena.

More information about The Human Bean’s philanthropic efforts can be found at thehumanbean.com, and more information about the United Way and their work in Larimer and Weld counties can be found at www.unitedway-weld.org.