Charles River Conservancy collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program.  The Charles River Conservancy continues its mission to enhance and maintain the natural beauty of the Charles River and its surrounding parks. On Friday, September 17, 2025, volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation gathered at Riverbend Park to support this mission through hands-on environmental stewardship. The team worked together to remove litter, paint benches, spread wood chips around young trees, and cut back invasive bittersweet vines, helping to preserve the health and accessibility of the park for all who enjoy it. “This was a great opportunity to give back to the community and help protect a space that means so much to so many,” said Emily Dzino, a volunteer from the SBB Research Group Foundation. “It was inspiring to see how much can be accomplished when people come together with a shared purpose.” This initiative supports the Charles River Conservancy’s goal of promoting urban river renewal and creating vibrant public spaces that connect people to nature and each other. Visit the Charles River Conservancy's website to learn more about their work. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

American Legion Post 75 collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. The American Legion Post 75 in Geneva, Illinois, is a vital space for veterans and community members. On September 7, 2025, volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation installed sound baffling and updated the look and safety of the post to enhance the comfort and usability of the facility. These upgrades ensure that Post 75 continues to serve as a welcoming and functional environment for meetings, events, and support services. The sound baffling in the basement improves acoustics for gatherings, while the additional renovations provide a refreshed space for programs and community activities. “This effort was about giving back to those who’ve served and supporting a space that brings people together,” said Dave Cannon, a volunteer who participated in the project. “It was a privilege to contribute alongside others who care deeply about the wellbeing of our veterans and neighbors.” This initiative supports the American Legion Post 75’s goal to enhance the well-being of America’s veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness. To learn more about American Legion Post 75 in Geneva, visit www.legion.org . This story can be found on Business Wire

The Center for Enriched Living collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. On September 25th, volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation partnered with The Center for Enriched Living (CEL) in Riverwoods, Illinois, to support one of the nonprofit’s weekly programs. CEL provides valuable programs and services for teens, adults, and seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), fostering a welcoming environment where members can thrive socially, emotionally, and intellectually. During the event, volunteers assisted CEL staff with arts and crafts, played games, and spent quality time socializing with members. These activities are designed to promote creativity, connection, and joy, core elements of CEL’s mission to enrich the lives of individuals with IDD. “The Center for Enriched Living is more than just a place, it’s a family that fosters kindness, inclusion, and unwavering support,” said Ashley Koziol, a volunteer from the SBB Research Group Foundation. “The staff and volunteers at CEL truly care about every member, creating an environment where each person is empowered to reach their full potential.” The presence of additional volunteers helped CEL run its program more smoothly and allowed the organization to introduce its mission to new individuals. By engaging with members and supporting staff, volunteers contributed to CEL’s ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive and supportive community. To learn more about The Center for Enriched Living and their mission, please visit: www.experiencecel.org . This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

Surge for Water received a donation from the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. On September 27, 2025, Surge for Water hosted its annual gala in Chicago, Illinois, bringing together supporters, volunteers, and partners to celebrate many years of transformative work in global water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health. Surge for Water, a women-led nonprofit, works hand-in-hand with local partners to deliver life-changing programs in Uganda, Haiti, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Founded in 2008 by Shilpa Alva, their community-first approach ensures that every initiative from clean water access to hygiene education is rooted in local leadership and long-term impact. For the seventh consecutive year, volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation were honored to attend and support the gala. Jordan Robinson, a volunteer with the Foundation, shared, “Helping communities access clean water is some of the most important work happening in the world. Surge recognizes that without first addressing the most fundamental human needs, aspirations for education and economic development are nearly impossible to achieve. Listening to Shilpa recount stories of the work Surge does and the outcomes it creates always leaves me humbled and optimistic about the power we have as individuals to help and care for one another.” The Gala not only celebrated past achievements but also raised awareness and support for future initiatives, including infrastructure development, educational outreach, and menstrual health programs. Through the SBB Research Group Foundation, Jordan Robinson works closely with Surge for Water to identify the most acute and underfunded opportunities to create a lasting impact. To learn more about Surge for Water and how to get involved, visit surgeforwater.org . This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Chicago-area charities as the October 2025 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order): Bronzeville Neighborhood Farm (Chicago, IL) is a community-driven urban farm in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. The organization promotes food justice, environmental stewardship, and community wellness by providing fresh produce, educational programs, and opportunities for residents to engage in sustainable agriculture. City Motivators (Chicago, IL) is dedicated to inspiring and empowering youth and families in Chicago through mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement. Their programs focus on building confidence, fostering positive relationships, and providing resources that help individuals reach their full potential. North Side Housing and Supportive Services (Chicago, IL) provides shelter, housing, and comprehensive support to adults experiencing homelessness in Chicago. Their mission is to empower individuals to achieve stability and independence through case management, mental health services, employment support, and permanent housing solutions. 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

Enriching Partnerships for Early Learning received a $5,000 grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation , which awards monthly grants to support impactful organizations. Enriching Partnerships for Early Learning (EPEL) , a nonprofit based in Elgin, Illinois, is reimagining how communities support their youngest members. Focused on children from birth to age five, EPEL is building a future where every child enters kindergarten ready to learn, grow, and thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through free, community-driven initiatives that span education, family engagement, and public health, EPEL connects families to essential resources for early childhood development. EPEL’s work is guided by a connected community plan, a roadmap for creating a coordinated, high-quality early childhood system across the Greater Elgin Area. By aligning local efforts and fostering collaboration among schools, healthcare providers, and social services, EPEL is helping to close the opportunity gap before children even step into a classroom. At the heart of EPEL’s mission is a belief in collective impact. Many of the families EPEL serves face barriers to early learning support access, from limited transportation to language differences. EPEL steps in with innovative, inclusive solutions that meet families where they are, whether at a local library, pediatric clinic, or community center. “We know children don’t get themselves ready for school—families and communities do,” says Amber Peters, Executive Director. “Our work is about lifting together. We listen, we collaborate, and we fill the gaps as a united front. When families rise, children rise with them.” EPEL’s impact reaches far beyond early education. Families engaged in their programs gain confidence, build stronger relationships, and discover new ways to support their children’s development. Whether through parent workshops, resource navigation, or neighborhood outreach, EPEL helps build a foundation for lifelong success. By investing in early childhood and strengthening community ties, Enriching Partnerships for Early Learning is shaping a future where every child is nurtured, supported, and celebrated from the very beginning. “We are proud to support EPEL as they strengthen families and communities by ensuring every child has the chance to start school ready to succeed,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

The SBB Research Group Foundation recognizes three Chicago-area charities as the September 2025 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofits (in alphabetical order): Enriching Partnership for Early Learning (Elgin, IL) fosters a collaborative and equitable early childhood system across the Greater Elgin Area, connecting families to essential resources and supporting children under five in their development, learning, and lifelong success. EZRA Multi-Service Center (Chicago, IL) helps secure, strengthen, and stabilize individuals and families struggling to meet their basic needs. Their mission is to empower individuals to reach their highest potential in self-reliance, meaningful social connection, and overall quality of life. Invest for Kids (Chicago, IL) empowers Chicago youth from under-resourced communities by funding high-impact programs and initiatives that promote education, leadership, and career development, building pathways to opportunity and long-term success. 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

Women United of Lake County collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program.  Women United of Lake County is dedicated to strengthening the community and creating a meaningful sense of belonging for everyone. This includes ensuring children in underserved communities have access to early learning resources and opportunities. On August 5, 2025, volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation assembled literacy kits filled with educational materials to help kids learn to read and write. These kits have been distributed to children in the community served by Women United, supporting their mission to promote literacy and school readiness. “The literacy kits will make a meaningful difference for the children Women United serve, helping them build a strong foundation for lifelong learning” said Sonia Munoz a volunteer for the SBB Research Group Foundation. “The event highlighted the need for these resources and the vital services Women United provides to their community.” This initiative directly supports Women United’s goal of preparing children for kindergarten and beyond. By providing access to age-appropriate books and learning tools, the literacy kits empower families to engage in early literacy activities at home. To learn more about Women United of Lake County, please visit their website . This story can be found on GlobeNewswire

The Dragonfly Foundation collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. On August 5th, volunteers from the SBB Research Group Foundation partnered with The Dragonfly Foundation to assemble summer-themed goodie bags for children and young adults undergoing cancer treatment and other medical conditions. The Dragonfly Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for pediatric patients and their families by offering emotional, relational, and practical support. This volunteer initiative, held in Northbrook, Illinois, aimed to create cheerful bags filled with fun summer items to be distributed to children in hospitals and outpatient care facilities. Volunteers played a crucial role in the project's success by thoughtfully packing each bag with toys, crafts, and handwritten notes of encouragement. “It was incredibly meaningful to contribute to something that brings joy to children facing such difficult circumstances,” said Jaime Djuric, a volunteer for the SBB Research Group Foundation. “Knowing that these small gestures can brighten someone’s day made the experience truly special.” The support from volunteers allowed The Dragonfly Foundation to focus on outreach and distribution, while the team handled the preparation and assembly of the goodie bags. These gifts will directly benefit the children served by Dragonfly, offering them moments of happiness and comfort during challenging times. To learn more about The Dragonfly Foundation and their mission, please visit: www.dragonfly.org 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): Massachusetts Oyster Project (Concord, 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. An initial grant helped launch a key initiative last year in the town of Yarmouth on Cape Cod: a restaurant-based oyster shell recycling program that creates optimal conditions for new oyster beds. 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 (SSCC) aims to create a secure and nurturing community for them to learn, grow, and discover their voices. An initial grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation funded SSCC’s audition-free core programming for singers ages 7–18, serving over 190 youth throughout the year. The support helped cover class materials, rehearsal and performance space rentals, and educator salaries. The Children’s Piazza (Peabody, MA) is focused on promoting healthy brain development in young children while supporting the emotional well-being of their caregivers. Their play-café serves as a welcoming refuge for adults navigating the challenges of caring for young children, ensuring access for everyone. An initial grant from the SBB Research Group Foundation supported their "Piazza for All" program, offering free and discounted admission to the community. Since then, they’ve subsidized visits for 468 children through the library museum pass, donated over $1700 in visits to nonprofits and those in need, and hosted 24 early intervention play groups at no cost. “These organizations have shown remarkable dedication to their communities. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help them continue their important work,” said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. “We’re proud to stand alongside them as they build on their successes.” 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