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!

The Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. The spirit of chess returned to McCormick Place as the 15th Annual Greater Chicago K-12 Chess Championship Tournament unfolded. Sponsored by the SBB Research Group Foundation (SBBRG Foundation) and the Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation (RKCF), the event aimed to nurture young minds through the ancient game of kings. With a focus on empowering youth through strategic thinking, analytical skills and teamwork, the SBBRG Foundation, RKCF, and other partners organized a day of camaraderie and competition. Over 700 students from various grade levels were enrolled in the event, including several hundred from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) with Title I low-income backgrounds, highlighting the commitment to accessible chess education. Participants competed across various categories, showcasing the diversity and talent within the Chicago chess community. Sandeep Navalgund, a Director at the SBBRG Foundation, expressed delight at the enthusiasm among participants. "It was great to see students and families excited to be part of the event, regardless of their age and skill level. The students' excitement made our involvement worthwhile," Navalgund remarked. The tournament, sanctioned by the United States Chess Federation (USCF), provided a platform for young chess enthusiasts to compete in USCF-rated matches, improving their strategic skills while aiming for titles and recognition. For those interested in tournament standings and memorable moments, detailed information is available on the Greater Chicago K-12 Chess Championship Tournament official website . This story can be found on GlobeNewswire and Yahoo! Finance

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. This volunteer project, led by Sonia Munoz, created Halloween snack packs for children in need, specifically those residing at emergency shelters operated by A Safe Place, a partner agency of Women United. This project brought warmth and happiness to children facing difficult circumstances. The snack packs were distributed during a Halloween celebration organized at A Safe Place’s facilities, offering a moment of joy amidst challenging times. "This volunteer project is a beautiful example of how individuals and organizations can come together to make a meaningful impact on children facing adversity. It serves as a reminder that a small act of kindness can go a long way in brightening someone's day and fostering a stronger, more compassionate community," said Munoz. The Halloween snack packs served as symbols of hope and care for children who had to leave their homes due to domestic abuse. They provided comfort and joy, demonstrating the power of community collaboration. The funds allocated for the project, along with remaining contributions, will be used for future projects designed to prepare children for kindergarten. Additionally, the funds will support community partners in providing children with the tools and resources they need to succeed in school, work, and life. To learn more about Women United and their ongoing efforts to make a difference in Lake County, visit their website at www.liveunitedlakecounty.org/women-united . This story can be found on Yahoo!

Neponset Rowing Club collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. In Boston's Dorchester and Mattapan neighborhoods, a volunteer project for the nonprofit Neponset Rowing Club is making waves. Robert Davis championed this project to support a significant fundraising initiative. These funds are vital to help the organization achieve its goals, which include expanding building capacity and outreach to bring more young people into rowing. Davis said, "We are committed to empowering our communities through rowing, and this fundraising initiative is a crucial step toward that goal." A particular focus is placed on neighboring communities that have historically been underserved. The fundraising program is now in full swing, representing a critical step in the organization's journey to achieve its strategic objectives. One notable aspect of this initiative is the focus on engaging both individual and business donors, presenting them with unique opportunities to get involved and make a meaningful difference. The funds raised through this initiative will go toward equipment purchases and maintenance, which are essential for the club to operate efficiently and provide a safe and enjoyable rowing experience. Additionally, the funds will support scholarships that align with the organization's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. These scholarships provide opportunities for young athletes who have yet to gain exposure to rowing or the means to participate in this sport. This volunteer project is a testament to the power of dedicated individuals and organizations coming together to make a meaningful impact. Through their efforts in fundraising and outreach, Neponset Rowing Club is breaking down barriers to ensure that underserved populations have equal opportunities to experience the sport and its associated benefits. To gain more insight into the mission and work of Neponset Rowing Club, you can visit their website at www.neponsetrowingclub.org . This story can be found on Yahoo!

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. Organized by Janine Bragdon, the project aimed to provide support to families affected by pediatric cancer and stress the importance of holistic well-being after treatment. The Dragonfly Foundation emphasizes the need to extend support beyond medical interventions. The organization advocates for a holistic, unwavering commitment to the well-being of these families, acknowledging that the effects may linger for years. During the event, SBB Research Group Foundation volunteers wrapped gifts purchased for families affiliated with the Dragonfly Foundation, demonstrating a commitment to making a positive impact. Janine Bragdon expressed her joy in being part of this event and highlighted the importance of these initiatives in positively impacting the lives of Dragonfly families. She looks forward to supporting more families in the future. This partnership underscores a commitment to enhancing the well-being of these families beyond medical care, with the goal of inspiring others to participate and build a community network of support. For more details, please visit dragonfly.org . This story can be found on BusinessWire

Chicago Scholars collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. Chicago Scholars recently hosted its annual Onsite College and Leadership Forum at Navy Pier. This event brought together scholars and students from community-based organization partners for a unique opportunity to interact with partner colleges and university representatives. This event serves as a platform for aspiring students to engage with representatives from colleges and universities. Volunteer participation, including support from the SBB Research Group Foundation, was instrumental in preparing materials and actively participating in the forum. Project leader Mitchell Lederer expressed his profound joy in supporting first-generation students from all over Chicago as they embark on their college journeys. One of the most notable aspects of the event was the interaction between over 500 colleges and universities and more than 600 Chicago Public Schools students in the college admittance process. Over $12,000,000 in financial aid was awarded to deserving students, making higher education more accessible and turning dreams into reality. Chicago Scholars has also emphasized its commitment to diversity and inclusion by investing in bilingual support for students and families. This initiative ensures that language barriers do not hinder any student's access to the resources and opportunities offered by the organization. The Chicago Scholars Onsite College and Leadership Forum is a testament to the organization's dedication to empowering young scholars. With the support of volunteers, donors, and partner institutions, this event provided an environment where students can pursue their dreams of higher education. Chicago Scholars continues to profoundly impact the lives of its students and the community. To gain more insight into the mission and work of Chicago Scholars, you can visit their website at chicagoscholars.org . 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 Night Shift Brewing near Boston, Massachusetts, a charitable initiative unfolded as nonprofit organization DKMS found a staunch supporter in Jennie Osber, volunteer project leader. DKMS, a global nonprofit dedicated to combating blood cancer and disorders, aims to raise awareness, recruit bone marrow donors, and fundraise for registration costs to support research in blood cancer therapies. The brewery event focused on encouraging attendees to register as potential bone marrow donors through a simple cheek swab process using DKMS-provided kits. Osber's efforts resulted in a significant boost to the donor registry. Collected cheek swab samples were sent to DKMS for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) testing, a crucial step in adding donors to the global registry. Matching HLA characteristics between donors and patients increases the chances of successful bone marrow transplants, offering hope to those battling blood cancer. This event furthered DKMS's mission and emphasized the impact of community engagement in the fight against blood cancer. The commitment of SBB Research Group Foundation and DKMS volunteers highlighted the collective effort needed to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by blood disorders. For more details, please visit dkms.org This story can be found on Business Wire

Heartland Animal Shelter (HAS) received a donation from the SBB Research Group Foundation , which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. Heartland Animal Shelter believes it is of utmost importance to create a warm, safe, and comfortable space for their feline and canine residents. Earlier this year, the SBBRG Foundation and the Heartland team joined forces to create fleece blankets for the dogs and cats of HAS in Wheeling, IL. Laura Heisinger, SBBRG Foundation’s charity leader for HAS, along with a staff member of HAS provided information about the shelter and its adoptable animals while engaging with attendees. Two adorable canines seeking a forever home made a special appearance as well. "I was truly inspired witnessing the Foundation come together for a cause that holds such personal significance. Although the act of blanket making may appear trivial, its profound impact on each animal under our care cannot be overstated," says Heisinger. Beyond the heartwarming blanket-making activity, the SBBRG Foundation and Heartland Animal Shelter partnership encompasses broader initiatives. The collaboration will provide new anesthesia machines and allocate funds to support the Arlo Fund and the Dr. Do More Fund. The Arlo Fund aims to ensure comprehensive care for all dogs at HAS, attending to their mental and emotional needs through training, behavioral interventions, and a shelter enrichment program. The Dr. Do More Fund empowers HAS to offer specialized medical, behavioral, and rehabilitative care for treatable animals, ensuring they receive the attention and support required for their well-being. For more details, please visit heartlandanimalshelter.org . This story can be found on Business Wire

Heartland Animal Shelter 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 in Northbrook hosted a Heartland Animal Shelter event, which focused on enhancing the well-being of shelter dogs through engaging in enrichment activities. With a focus on improving the mental health and well-being of animals, volunteers from the SBBRG Foundation and representatives from Heartland Animal Shelter gathered to construct busy boxes (enrichment puzzles) for the dogs. The boxes helped enhance their foraging skills and reduce kennel stress. This initiative highlighted the commitment to providing mental stimulation alongside physical activity for the shelter's residents. Laura Heisinger, Charity Leader, expressed delight at the enthusiasm among participants. "We had such an amazing turnout of volunteers and made an incredible number of busy boxes. Everyone was so eager to help—it was wonderful," Heisinger remarked. The event even had a unique canine visitor, Hoagie, a bulldog mix, who was a big highlight. He was the show's star, enjoying a brief escape from the shelter and spreading joy among the attendees. For those interested in learning more about Heartland Animal Shelter and its efforts to support animal welfare, detailed information is available on its official website heartlandanimalshelter.org . This story can be found on PRWeb