The Mass Audubon Society collaborated in a volunteer initiative with the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program.   At the heart of the Mass Audubon Society’s efforts, Charity Leader Emily Cerra led a meaningful volunteer initiative at Drumlin Farm in Lincoln, Massachusetts. Cerra and her colleague Lauren Pajer organized a hands-on powerful opportunity to support sustainable agriculture and contribute directly to local food production. Volunteers gathered early to assist the farm team in vital tasks, including weeding crop rows, picking produce, and watering the fields. They accomplished in just three hours what would have taken the farmers days to complete on their own. “Gathering together, learning about the farming techniques used at Drumlin, and seeing how quickly many hands could tackle vast amounts of weeds was incredibly rewarding,” said Cerra. “The farmers were pleasantly surprised at just how much we were able to accomplish.” Drumlin Farm grows fifty different fruits and vegetables, from kohlrabi to bok choy, across 30 acres of Boyce Field. The farm’s commitment to sustainable practices, including crop rotation, cover crops, and soil enrichment without chemical fertilizers or pesticides, underscores its dedication to organic agriculture. Produce from the farm supports the local community through weekly contributions to nearby food pantries and sales through its CSA, farm stand, and local markets. Proceeds from these sales fund the sanctuary’s nature-based programs for families and children. This initiative advanced the farm’s mission and exemplified the impact of community engagement in supporting sustainable food systems. The funds contributed to Drumlin Farm will continue to support its agricultural efforts and environmental education programs, fostering a healthy and resilient ecosystem. Click here to learn more about The Mass Audubon Society and Drumlin Farm. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation named Ebun Adebesin 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). Ebun Adebesin, a first-year graduate student, studies information systems at Northeastern University. Outside the classroom, she raises awareness about the "digital divide" and has provided computer literacy classes for children and adults from under-resourced backgrounds. "I admire Ebun's dedication to making technology accessible to all people. Computer literacy is so important, and I'm excited that we can help Ebun use her education to close the digital divide," 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 Adaeze Ozuzu 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). Adaeze Ozuzu, a fourth-year undergraduate, studies biology at Hardin-Simmons University. After moving to the United States, she began volunteering at Hendrick Medical Center. Ozuzu has a passion for urology and said that shadowing experiences affirmed her decision to pursue medicine. "Adaeze's passion and dedication to the medical profession is incredible for someone so early in their career. I'm honored that we can help her pursue the career of her dreams," 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 recognizes three Chicago-area charities as the November 2024 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order):  Double Blessings Inc. (Chicago, IL) supports young mothers and their children from infancy to age five. The organization equips families with essential resources to foster mental health, healthy child development, strong relationships, and positive parent-child interactions. Street Samaritans (Chicago, IL) aims to disrupt the cycle of homelessness and poverty by connecting individuals to solutions and offering support along their journey. The organization focuses on dignity and compassion, provides immediate assistance, and builds pathways to stability, empowerment, and transformation. Violets Kitchen (Carol Stream, IL) is a mobile emergency resource that provides food and supplies to unsheltered veterans and others in need. It offers nutritious meals and other supplies to help improve their daily lives. 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 Globe Newswire

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): The Dragonfly Foundation (Highland Park, IL) provides support and resources to pediatric cancer patients and their families by partnering with local hospitals during diagnosis, treatment, and beyond. The initial grant supported pediatric cancer patients and families at eight Chicagoland hospitals. The funds covered urgent needs, including rent, lodging during treatment, winter clothing, and groceries. Project Kennedy (Glenwood, IL) leverages their platform to foster awareness and support individuals battling cancer, their loved ones, and their communities. They offer emotional support, inspiring those touched by the challenges of cancer. With the initial grant Project Kennedy awarded two scholarships, delivered ’Kare Baskets’, provided groceries to 10 families, and distributed Easter bags to children being treated for cancer at their four partner hospitals. Willow House (Bannockburn, IL) is dedicated to offering grief support and educational resources to young individuals, families, schools, and other affected communities coping with the loss of a family member. They aspire to ensure that no child, teenager, or parent undergoes the grieving process alone. Willow House used the initial grant to enhance their Expressive Arts program, providing art supplies for three monthly groups with 58 attendees, over half of whom were children under 18. The funds also supported their Spanish-speaking groups by marketing programs, translating materials, and supplying meeting resources. “We are happy to support these incredible organizations as they continue their essential work, providing critical resources and support to families facing cancer and grief in our community,” 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 Globe Newswire

Black Onyx Allstars received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation , which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. Black Onyx Allstars , based in Chicago, IL, provides a culturally relevant and inclusive, competitive cheerleading experience that empowers young athletes while fostering community engagement. Their mission is to offer the full all-star cheerleading experience to the youth in their community, particularly focusing on areas that have long been underserved. By promoting teamwork, athleticism, and personal growth, Black Onyx creates a supportive and uplifting environment that allows its cheerleaders to thrive. The organization envisions a future where cheerleading is accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance. It aims to instill the physical skills necessary for success and a sense of community, discipline, and personal responsibility. The South Side of Chicago has historically needed more opportunities for youth to experience all-star cheerleading at a professional, safe, and competitive level. Black Onyx is working to create those opportunities. Black Onyx Allstars is committed to building personal connections with each athlete. The coaches go beyond athletic development, actively supporting the athletes' academic and personal lives to create a supportive environment—a second home where they feel encouraged to succeed in all areas of life. Black Onyx Allstars is more than just a cheerleading team—it's a community dedicated to uplifting the next generation of young athletes. Head Coach Imani Cobb explains, "We aim to mentor and develop well-rounded individuals, not just athletes. We prioritize our cheerleaders' athletic, academic, and mental well-being, ensuring they excel both on and off the mat. Our focus is on nurturing their growth and supporting their passions beyond cheerleading." Fundraising also plays a crucial role in making this vision possible. The coaches and community members organize local initiatives to help cover travel costs, uniforms, and competition fees. Those efforts ensure that financial barriers won't prevent anyone from participating. "We are proud to support Black Onyx Allstars in their mission to provide young athletes with an inclusive, empowering cheerleading experience that fosters personal growth and community engagement," 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 PRWeb

The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Chicago-area charities as the September 2024 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order): Black Onyx Allstars (Chicago, IL) offers a culturally inclusive and empowering cheerleading program that fosters community engagement. They are committed to delivering a comprehensive all-star journey that promotes teamwork, athleticism, and personal growth in a supportive and uplifting environment. Comic Books for Kids (St. Charles, IL) aims to bring kid-friendly comics and pop culture items to children in hospitals and cancer centers. They work closely with Child Life teams to tailor donations to the unique needs of each hospital, primarily in the U.S., with expansion into Canada. Illinois Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (Lemont, IL) enhances the impact of free and charitable clinics by advocating for and supporting them to provide equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare. They address systemic health inequities, drive change in marginalized communities, foster clinic-led collaboration, and use the unique clinic model to inspire innovation and influence policy. 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 Globe Newswire

CASA Lake County received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation , which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations.  CASA Lake County , based in Vernon Hills, IL, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for abused and neglected children in the juvenile court system. The organization’s mission is to train volunteers to represent the children in court, ensuring their best interests are met and they are placed in safe, permanent homes. Through their work, CASA helps children either return to their families when appropriate or transition into stable environments where they can thrive. Each year, many children in Lake County are removed from unsafe homes and placed in foster care. CASA volunteers play a crucial role in providing stability and guidance during this often lengthy and uncertain process. By reducing time spent in temporary care and aiding in quicker, safer placements, the trained advocates help ensure that children do not get lost in the system. According to Brendan Siegfried, Director of Development at CASA Lake County, "One standout feature of our program is the dedication of our volunteers. They help identify the best possible placements for children, giving them a better chance at finding permanent, safe homes as quickly as possible. This has a tremendous benefit for the children and our community by reducing the number of kids in care." CASA volunteers come from all walks of life and do not require legal expertise. They serve as the child’s advocate throughout the legal proceedings, offering a consistent presence in what can otherwise be a chaotic time. Children with CASA representation tend to spend significantly less time in foster care and are more likely to find permanent placements. CASA Lake County’s efforts extend beyond immediate advocacy. They also focus on educational support, ensuring foster children succeed in school and beyond. Through these initiatives, CASA aims to provide every child with the stability and resources they need to grow and thrive in a nurturing environment. “CASA Lake County’s work aligns closely with our mission to support organizations making a tangible difference in the community. We’re proud to contribute to their efforts in providing children with the stability and care they deserve during difficult times,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. This story can be found on Globe Newswire

My Density Matters received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation , which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. Based in Hawthorn Woods, IL, My Density Matters is dedicated to transforming how women approach breast cancer screening by providing crucial information and support about breast density. The organization’s mission is to help women understand their breast density, explore their screening options, and advocate for necessary additional screenings. Breast density can significantly impact mammogram effectiveness. Dense breast tissue and cancer both appear white on a mammogram, making early detection more challenging and increasing the risk of undetected cancer. Knowing breast density, determined through a mammogram or by reviewing a mammogram report, is essential for managing breast health. Leslie Yerger, Founder and CEO of My Density Matters, highlights the importance of taking control of your health: "We all have the power to make a difference in our health outcomes. It starts with understanding and advocating for the right screening options." My Density Matters encourages women to proactively manage their breast health by educating themselves about breast density and advocating for the appropriate screening measures. The goal is to remove the obstacles dense breast tissue poses to early breast cancer detection, ensuring timely and accurate diagnoses. Through community outreach, educational programs, and partnerships, My Density Matters aims to raise awareness about the significance of understanding breast density. The organization is guided by core values of empowerment, advocacy, and education, ensuring women have the information and resources needed to make informed health decisions. “We proudly stand with My Density Matters in their mission to provide women with the essential information and resources needed for better breast cancer screening,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. This story can be found on Business Wire

The Andrew Weishar Foundation collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. The SBB Research Group Foundation sponsored the Andrew Weishar Foundation (AWF) to provide holiday assistance to families facing financial difficulties due to cancer diagnoses. KC Casper, along with other volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation, wrapped Christmas presents for the families during the event. Maggie Sommer, Executive Program Director at AWF, shared stories about each family, fostering personal connections between the volunteers and recipients. Following the event, gifts were distributed to six families supported by AWF, with the goal of bringing joy and easing financial strain during the holiday season. Casper expressed satisfaction at observing the impact of their holiday event with the Andrew Weishar Foundation, emphasizing the personal connections made and the event's focus on providing relief to families facing challenges. For more details, please visit www.weish4ever.org This story can be found on Yahoo!