Support Over Stigma received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation , which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. Support Over Stigma (SOS) , located in St. Charles, IL, is dedicated to empowering military members, veterans, first responders, and their families through a comprehensive array of support to address mental health and service-related challenges. SOS strives to provide the necessary aid, education, tools, and resources to help conquer mental health obstacles, ultimately saving lives. SOS envisions a future where individuals affected by service-related mental health challenges, such as military, veteran, and first responder PTSD, find comprehensive support. Guided by core values of inclusivity, empathy, integrity, transparency, and advocacy, the organization directs its efforts through initiatives like Steps of Strength, a symbolic event representing the journey toward mental well-being and advocating for broad support. Steps of Strength is a gathering of community solidarity and empowerment. It encourages participants to surmount personal barriers while raising awareness about the mental health struggles encountered by those in service. Educational initiatives, outreach endeavors, and partnerships form integral parts of SOS's approach, aiming to offer valuable insights, nurture connections, and tackle pressing issues like homelessness and food insecurity within these communities. Peer-to-peer mentorship initiatives provide a platform for individuals to connect, exchange experiences, and offer mutual assistance, fostering empathy and personal development. Additionally, SOS's Midwest Military Partnerships facilitate meaningful connections and camaraderie among service members, veterans, and their families through shared experiences and available resources. Zoeie Kreiner, SOS President and CEO, says, "We all have the ability to make a difference. It's just about making the choice to get up and do it." SOS is committed to equipping individuals with the tools and support they need to navigate mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. “Support Over Stigma’s commitment to empowering military members, veterans, first responders, and their families with crucial mental health support aligns perfectly with our mission to make a meaningful impact,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. This story can be found on Business Wire

DKMS collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. At Framingham State University, an exciting endeavor took shape as Jennie Osber, the volunteer project leader, led a collaboration between the University’s Aspiring Health Professionals Club and the nonprofit organization DKMS. DKMS, known for combating blood cancer and disorders, focuses on awareness, donor recruitment, and fundraising to cover registration costs for bone marrow donors, thereby supporting vital research in blood cancer therapies. The event centered on encouraging attendees to join the bone marrow registry by undergoing a simple cheek swab process facilitated by DKMS-provided kits. Thanks to Osber's efforts, the event saw an impressive turnout, with approximately 30 new participants signing up for the registry and word spreading rapidly across campus. The collected cheek swab samples were swiftly dispatched to DKMS for crucial human leukocyte antigen (HLA) testing. This essential step enhances the chances of successful bone marrow transplants by identifying compatible donors, offering hope to those grappling with blood cancer. This event at Framingham State University not only advanced DKMS's mission but also underscored the profound impact of community engagement in the fight against blood cancer. The commitment of SBB Research Group Foundation and DKMS volunteers exemplified the power of collective action in making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals affected by blood disorders. For further information, please visit dkms.org . This story can be found on Globe Newswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation named Bolaji Akorede 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). Bolaji Akorede is a first-year graduate student in biomedical sciences at the University of Wyoming. He has worked as a Graduate Research Assistant in the High-Altitude Exercise Aging Research Team (HEART) Lab, and has used his work to drive data-driven solutions to socioeconomic problems. "Bolaji has a strong vision for the future for himself and his community. I'm so glad we can play a part in his success," 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 named Jesus Manuel Reyes 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). Jesus Reyes, a first-year graduate student in biological sciences at the University of Texas at El Paso, has conducted various field research, including searching for Burmese pythons in Florida, handling alligators and pythons at an animal park in Texas, and conducting crocodile population surveys in Belize. "Jesus has made the most of his educational opportunities, and we're proud to help him move toward his next adventure," 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 June 2024 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order): A&L Youth and Family Services (ALYFS) (Chicago, IL) empowers young individuals by providing a secure environment, supportive mentors, and impactful programming. These initiatives help youth develop life and workforce skills. ALYFS is committed to offering diverse and engaging opportunities for youth and mentors, fostering community servant leadership. Chicago Wall of Fame (Chicago, IL) offers transformative programs for at-risk youth. It provides small group sessions, one-on-one mentoring, homework assistance, and life skills training for low-income families with high-risk youth. It also provides community assistance to seniors aged 55 and older. Hunger Resource Network (HRN) (Northbrook, IL) is dedicated to alleviating hunger by connecting surplus food with people in need. HRN operates through initiatives like Community Outreach Days - Poultry to Pantries, coordinating services via recipient agencies rather than serving individuals directly. 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 Business Wire

The SBB Research Group Foundation named Michelle Lam 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). Michelle Lam, a first-year student, studies mechanical engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Outside the classroom, Lam has designed an adapted baseball launcher for children with disabilities and worked to bring STEM education to under-resourced schools. "Michelle is so creative, and she's excited about using her education to make the world a better place. We're lucky to be able to support students like her," 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 .

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): Caring 4 Kids Clothing (Winthrop Harbor, IL) Caring for Kids Clothing addresses the pressing issue of clothing inadequacy among hundreds of children annually. Providing essential items such as warm winter gear, school uniforms, everyday clothing, and more, ensuring that every child's basic needs are met. Intergenerational Computer Education (Chicago, IL) Intergenerational Computer Education (ICE) aims to empower individuals across all age groups to excel in the digital realm through inclusive education and training. Milton Township Food Pantry (Wheaton, IL) Milton Township Food Pantry’s provides support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. This organization ensures residents have access to nutritious, wholesome fresh food, including perishable and non-perishable items. "We're proud to support these organizations as they continue to make meaningful differences in their 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 Yahoo!

Willow House received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation, which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. Willow House, located in Bannockburn, Illinois, is committed to providing grief support and education to individuals coping with the loss of a parent, sibling, or child. Their mission is to create a supportive environment where individuals can navigate the grieving process alongside others who share similar experiences. Willow House's vision is to ensure that no child, teen, or parent grieves alone, offering hope and healing to those in need. Through peer support groups, Willow House brings together individuals of all ages dealing with the death of a loved one. These groups provide a safe space for expressing emotions, honoring memories, and sharing personal stories. Thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers, Willow House's services are provided free of charge. David Scheffler, Executive Director, emphasizes, "We want to provide a safe, comfortable place for families to express their grief and be among others who understand it. Willow House will always be there for them, immediately following a loss or down the road." Willow House also offers its services to schools, educating and assisting staff to better aid grieving students, including crisis support, professional development, and grief support strategies. The Expressive Arts Program, a source of pride, provides hands-on activities like painting, songwriting, and yoga to help participants of all ages honor memories, build coping skills, and share their stories in a supportive environment. Furthermore, Willow House raises awareness about grief within the community, offering education and support to community groups, corporations, and other local organizations. Consultation services include neighborhood gatherings, educational consultations, program development, in-services for professionals, and referrals to experienced mental health professionals. "We are proud to support Willow House in their pursuit of practical, community-based grief support, ensuring accessible care for those affected by loss," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. This story can be found on PRWeb and Yahoo! Finance

The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Chicago-area charities as the March 2024 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order): OMNI Youth Services (Wheeling, IL) functions as a holistic behavioral health entity, catering to various communities in Illinois by providing readily available counseling services and community initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of young people, families, and individuals. Open Communities (Evanston, IL) is committed to eliminating housing discrimination and unjust behaviors that sustain inequality. It cultivates vibrant, inclusive communities by defending fair housing policies, offering housing counseling, providing education and outreach, and engaging in advocacy efforts. Willow House (Bannockburn, IL) offers grief support and educational resources to young individuals, families, schools, and other affected communities coping with the loss of a parent, sibling, or child. Its no-cost services serve as a starting point for healing, offering a supportive environment for individuals to mourn alongside others who have experienced similar losses. It aspires to ensure that no child, teenager, or parent undergoes the grieving process alone. 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 GlobeNewsire

The SBB Research Group Foundation named Emerald Bell 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). Emerald Bell, a fourth-year graduate student, studies nursing at the University of Arizona. She is part of an ongoing investigation into how vaginal and gut microbiomes contribute to chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis in the Herbst-Kralovetz Lab at the University of Arizona. She has also assisted in a recent bioanalysis project with Dr. Nicole Jimenez. "Emerald's research is fascinating, and I'm so happy that we can support her in her graduate work," 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 and Yahoo!