The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation recently made a generous $250,000 grant to combine with NCEF's funds to support healthcare services for the most vulnerable children in our community.
With a 22-year track record of fostering collaboration among local children’s nonprofits and an investment-minded approach to its charitable work in the county, NCEF is drawing attention and funding from like-minded private foundations like the Schulze Family Foundation seeking to make strategic grants and partner with other foundations.
“My family and I partner with the Naples Children & Education Foundation because of its innovative and collaborative approach, rigorous focus on measurable outcomes, and how it leverages resources to prepare children of working-poor families for a successful future,” according to Mr. Schulze, founder and chairman emeritus of Best Buy Co., Inc. “By investing wisely and holding its grantees to the highest of standards, NCEF makes a true impact on the lives of children in Collier County.”
Mary Beth Geier, Florida Regional Director of the Schulze Family Foundation, added:
“What sets NCEF apart is how it brings together dozens of nonprofit organizations using a collaborative impact model that helps to eliminate competition and duplication, breaks down silos, and works to solve our children’s greatest developmental challenges. The NCEF team also closely monitors its many collaborations and holds its service providers accountable. The Schulze Family Foundation applauds their efforts and is pleased to support NCEF with grants that generate life-changing outcomes.”
Young Zach Rosenberg exemplifies how the Schulze Family Foundation’s support of healthcare programs and services makes a difference. Zach struggled during childhood due to autism, which was compounded by visual and hearing impairments. After Zach enrolled at specialized centers supported by NCEF, his educational and social skills skyrocketed, his vision improved, and he later secured a part-time job. Zach is preparing for his GED test and taking online coursework to learn what it takes to become a registered behavior therapist so he can help others like him.
NCEF thanks the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation for its partnership and support and looks forward to additional partnerships to help at-risk and underprivileged children.