The SBB Research Group Foundation named Nadxieli Valencia a recipient of its STEM scholarship. The $2,500 award empowers students to create value for society by pursuing higher learning through interdisciplinary combinations of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Nadxieli Valencia, a freshman, studies Biology at the University of Michigan. Recently, she shadowed a surgeon and imaging specialist at Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago and completed a Stop the Bleed course through the American College of Surgeons. "Nadxieli has accomplished so much for a first-year college student. We are thrilled to support her as she continues to grow," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. For eligibility criteria and more information on the Foundation's STEM scholarship, please visit www.sbbscholarship.org. This story can be found on PRWeb

The SBB Research Group Foundation named Meher Khan a recipient of its STEM scholarship. The $2,500 award empowers students to create value for society by pursuing higher learning through interdisciplinary combinations of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Meher Khan, a sophomore, studies Genetics and Genomics at the University of California, Davis. Khan studied progressive retinal atrophy as a research assistant at the UC Davis Comparative Ophthalmology and Vision Science Laboratory and served as a Clinical Informatics Intern at the Oregon Health & Science University Casey Eye Institute. "Meher has a promising future in health research. We are proud to support that future," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. For eligibility criteria and more information on the Foundation's STEM scholarship, please visit www.sbbscholarship.org. This story can be found on Yahoo!

The SBB Research Group Foundation invited three prior grant recipients to share updates on their critical efforts to support the local community. The Foundation awarded additional grants to further each of the respective organization’s missions (organizations listed alphabetically): Compass to Care Childhood Cancer Foundation (Chicago) provides free transportation for children battling cancer, ensuring access to life-saving treatment and clinical trials despite financial hardship. The initial grant was allocated to support 22 children with cancer diagnoses. The children supported by the SBB Research Group Foundation grant collectively took 194 trips to the hospital for treatment. Illinois Joining Forces (Chicago) serves as a unified network of military and veteran-serving organizations across Illinois. They streamline access to support services for service members, veterans, and their families, eliminating the need for individuals to navigate multiple resources to find assistance. The initial grant enabled Illinois Joining Forces to continue its mission to support service members, veterans, and their families through their outreach and Care Coordination Center efforts. YouthBuild Lake County (Chicago) empowers young adults with education, training, and life skills for gainful employment and a better future. They offer free programs in Lake County that include obtaining diplomas, industry certifications, career readiness, hands-on experience, and facilitating transitions into careers, college, or vocational schools. The initial grant was used to cover expenses related to their wellness services, such as emergency food, eyeglasses, clothing, bus, and gas gift cards. "We're proud to support these impactful charities, each making a meaningful difference in their communities," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. The Foundation encourages any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to apply for a grant at sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Donations are awarded to different organizations monthly. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire and Yahoo!

Massachusetts Oyster Project Inc. received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. The Massachusetts Oyster Project Inc. is dedicated to restoring water-cleansing oysters and native shellfish in the state's marine estuaries. The organization's multifaceted mission, encompassing restoration, shell recycling, education, and advocacy, involves active collaboration with local entities to establish oyster upwellers, acting as nurseries for native oysters and supporting local restoration initiatives. As a champion of shell recycling, the organization also partners with local restaurants to collect and recycle oyster shells, with a future for their utilization in restoration sites. Education takes center stage in the organization's endeavors, reaching out to school groups, Scout troops, and environmental organizations through a fact-based curriculum. Dr. Andrew Rosenberg, chair of the organization's board, underscores the importance of community partnerships in achieving their restoration goals, emphasizing, "Our restoration aims to restore oysters into the ecosystem. All our programs always partner with local communities. We rely on volunteers from these coastal towns to allow us to place shells back into the water, promoting that oyster recycling and restoration are important." Recognizing the urgency in Massachusetts coastlines, the organization highlights the pivotal role of oysters in mitigating pollution issues, contributing significantly to improved water quality and climate change mitigation. The Upweller Program, featuring four upwellers across the state, serves as both a demonstration of water quality improvement and a tool to generate public interest in shellfish conservation. "The Massachusetts Oyster Project serves as a significant force in environmental improvement. We are proud to support their mission," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. The organization's commitment to oyster shell recycling is exemplified in the Wellfleet program, which collects, ages, and spreads recycled oyster shells in Wellfleet's oyster harvesting site, creating a habitat for baby oysters. As the Massachusetts Oyster Project Inc. continues to forge ahead, it remains a source of inspiration in the vital mission to restore and preserve the marine ecosystem. This story can be found on PRWeb

South Shore Children’s Chorus received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. The South Shore Children's Chorus (SSCC) is a harmonious symbol of musical education and vocal training, serving as a sanctuary for children in Quincy, MA, and beyond. Established in January 2016 by Kirsten Oberoi and Carey Shunskis, this choir is a testament to the belief that each child should have the chance to explore and utilize their distinct voice. Devoted to cultivating a community centered on the joy of singing, the SSCC aims to provide exceptional musical education and vocal training to students in the South Shore communities. The chorus places a premium on the development and well-being of its students, striving to create a nurturing environment where choristers can learn, evolve, and discover their voices. The SSCC ensures that every child in grades K-12, regardless of financial circumstances, can partake in learning to use their voice. "We envisioned an inclusive space where children could join without prior experience. Singing, a skill we firmly believe is teachable, becomes a source of confidence and self-belief without needing auditions. Our doors are always open, inviting all to discover the transformative power of music," said Kirsten Oberoi, Founding Artistic Director. Through its programs, the SSCC transformed into more than just a choir; it evolved into a community center that nurtures the growth of young minds. Consistent with its mission, the SSCC strongly emphasizes inclusivity, aiming to foster a supportive community where children can freely express themselves. The chorus serves as a counterbalance to economic obstacles, guaranteeing that no child is deprived of the opportunity to explore music and self-expression. “The South Shore Children's Chorus brings much joy to children’s lives, and we are honored to support them,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. Committed to delivering quality musical education and vocal training, the chorus is a vital and commendable service for the children it serves, establishing an environment where they can learn, thrive, and discover their voices. This story can be found on Globe Newswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Boston-area charities as the January 2024 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order): Massachusetts Oyster Project (Quincy, MA) dedicates its time and effort to improving water quality, marine habitat, coastal resilience, and biodiversity through reef restoration. The organization reintroduces oysters and other native shellfish into Massachusetts waters. South Shore Children’s Chorus (Quincy, MA) is committed to delivering quality musical education and vocal training to students in the South Shore and beyond. Emphasizing the development and well-being of its students, South Shore Children’s Chorus aims to create a secure and nurturing community for them to learn, grow, and discover their voices. The organization provides vocal learning opportunities for every child, irrespective of financial circumstances or previous experience. The Snapchef Foundation (Dorchester, MA) offers stable career paths in the food service industry through training and mentorship, concurrently providing meals to those in need. Collaborating with local organizations, they distribute high-quality meals prepared by training program participants. Snapchef believes in removing barriers to help individuals succeed in securing a stable, fulfilling career to overcome poverty. The Foundation encourages any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to apply for a grant at sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Donations are awarded to different organizations monthly. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire.

The SBB Research Group Foundation invited three prior grant recipients to share updates on their critical efforts to support the local community. The Foundation awarded additional grants to further each of the respective organization’s missions (organizations listed alphabetically): DrinkWater Family Services (Lindenhurst) aims to ensure the safety of children who are placed in foster care due to domestic violence and neglect by offering supervised visitation for noncustodial parents. This service aims to support parent-child relationships while providing a safe environment for the child. The initial grant provided parenting time for five noncustodial parents, conducted on-site group sessions through certified PAIP (partner abuse intervention program) facilitators, and launched a new hair care program for interracial foster and adoptive families by acquiring salon chairs and a television. Soul Survivors of Chicago (Matteson) provides training and workshops aimed at raising awareness and educating communities on mental health, suicide prevention, and trauma prevention. The initial grant extended the organization's reach, hosting a bi-weekly virtual support group. It also facilitated the sanitization, storage, and donation of shoes and supported the purchase of outreach materials to amplify their message on suicide prevention. You Are Enough (Deerfield) strives to destigmatize mental health, emphasizing self-worth for those facing challenges. They aim to foster open conversations and establish mental health wellness centers in schools, prioritizing this essential aspect of well-being. The initial grant helped establish the inaugural You Are Enough High School Wellness Center at Deerfield High School. The funds supported the implementation of a green wall, games, art materials, aromatherapy resources, fidget toys, and other essential supplies, enhancing the students' overall well-being. “These three charities have done so much for their community. It is an honor to continue to support them,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. The Foundation encourages any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to apply for a grant at sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Donations are awarded to different organizations monthly. This story can be found on EIN Presswire and Yahoo!

The Outreach House received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. The Outreach House, a nonprofit organization operating in the York Township area, provides support to individuals and families. Its initiatives facilitate access to nourishing food, diapers, hygiene products for infants, clothing suitable for all age groups, and emergency financial assistance. "We want to allow people to benefit from our services with as much dignity as we can provide them," said Catherine Lynott, Executive Director of the Outreach House. The Outreach House's unique space mimics what you typically see in a grocery store and allows an authentic shopping experience for its guests. "We are proud of the space we have created. Our ADA-compliant building allows accessibility for everyone to shop without limits. We want to continue to grow and to serve whoever needs our help," said Catherine Lynott. Recently, the Outreach House has seen significant growth in households benefiting from its programs due to increased operating hours and an expanded service area to include other nearby towns. “It is great to see an organization think beyond essential items by focusing on people. We are honored to support the Outreach House,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. The organization will use the SBB Research Group Foundation grant to provide resources to support existing guests and respond to the growing number of new guests in need. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire and Yahoo!

The Salaam Community Wellness Center received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. The Salaam Community Wellness Center (SCWC) is a beacon of hope for underserved communities in Chicago. Established in response to longstanding health disparities, significantly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the SCWC is committed to providing a unique, holistic approach to healthcare. This community wellness center focuses on four key areas: culturally responsive primary care, addiction treatment, mental health, and nutrition. Its primary care model is a vital patient entry point, addressing physical health and identifying healthcare and social service needs. The SCWC acknowledges that imbalances within individuals can lead to "disease," often leading to substance abuse as a coping mechanism. "We aimed to create a program that not only expands healthcare access in the South Side of Chicago but also introduces a novel model that provides a range of programs that are often financially out of reach for the community we are dedicated to serving," said Dr. Constance Shabazz, SCWC CEO/Founder. The SCWC applies a non-judgmental, individualized approach that combines Western and non-Western modalities to combat addictions. Individual and group therapy sessions are complemented by mind-body exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, massage therapy, Reiki, and sound therapy. Mental health is another priority, particularly in communities where conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic symptoms are prevalent. The SCWC's integrative approach includes various therapy options and mind-body techniques to support self-healing. "Salaam Community Wellness Center provides a necessary service to people who need it. We are honored to support them," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. Beyond healthcare, the center takes a holistic view, tackling factors influencing health outcomes, such as the availability of specialty care, housing, food, transportation, and employment opportunities. It seeks to create a "social service hub" to connect patients with the necessary resources. This story can be found on Business Wire and Yahoo!

Milton Township Food Pantry received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. Located in Wheaton, Illinois, the Milton Township Food Pantry is a source of hope and sustenance for residents. Established in 2022, this nonprofit organization has made it its mission to ensure that every resident in need has access to nutritious, wholesome, and fresh food, including various perishable and non-perishable items. The Milton Township Food Pantry's cornerstone is treating each family and individual with dignity and respect. Their operations rely on the generosity of donations and contributions from the community, enabling them to extend a helping hand to those in need. The pantry offers a wide array of essential items within its facility, ranging from personal hygiene products to various food options, including fresh produce and even freshly baked items. The goal is to address the various requirements of the community, considering the diverse needs of each client they assist. "We are honored to support a charity that strives to connect with the people they serve," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. A significant focus of the Milton Township Food Pantry is effective communication with its clients. Recognizing the diversity of the population in Milton Township, where 39% of residents are non-native English speakers. The pantry has taken proactive steps to bridge language barriers. They utilize translation technology to better understand and fulfill the unique needs of their clients. Grant Facilitator and General Case Worker Debbie Mrozinksi expressed the importance of ensuring clients feel at home when they visit the pantry, emphasizing that no individual should feel stigmatized or alienated when seeking assistance. "Our clients feel at home when shopping; they don't feel like they are in a food pantry. Any one of us could turn around one day and face this situation. No matter what, everyone should be able to access and communicate their needs," she stated. Through their commitment to dignity, respect, and effective communication, The Milton Township Food Pantry strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of its community members, ensuring that no one goes hungry or feels isolated during their time of need. This story can be found on PRWeb and Yahoo!