This grant recognizes community impact the organization has in making a positive impact on Saint Louis youth.
St. Louis, MO – August 13, 2024 – As part of The Starbucks Foundation’s Neighborhood Grants program, Cornerstone was selected to receive a $1,000 grant. This grant award is thanks to a nomination from a local Starbucks partner who recognized the work of the organization in St. Louis city with early childhood education. Through this unique program, The Starbucks Foundation invites Starbucks partners and alumni to nominate a local organization in their community. Since 2019, more than 13,000 grants have been awarded to local organizations, amounting to more than $20 million. Cornerstone was selected from over 33,000 nominations submitted by Starbucks partners earlier this year.
“We are deeply grateful for the nomination by Jeff-Dyson Perkins and the generous support from The Starbucks Foundation Neighborhood Grant.” Said Karen Lucy, Executive Director for Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, “This funding will significantly enhance our Certified-outdoor classroom. At Cornerstone, we’re part of a global effort to bring kids back outside, ensuring that every child has fair access to outdoor spaces where they can learn, play, and grow. Some parents have told us that their children only get to play outside when they’re at Cornerstone because their neighborhoods lack safe outdoor spaces. That’s why we’re so committed to outdoor educational experiences.”
The Starbucks Foundation’s Neighborhood Grants program supports grassroots, community-led nonprofit organizations through catalytic investments in the form of grants. Neighborhood Grants also help build sustained local impact and inspire increased partner engagement with nonprofit organizations that work in their communities.
“Our partners know their communities best, and have shared great insights about the organizations helping to uplift others in their neighborhoods, from supporting youth and families to fighting hunger and promoting environmental stewardship,” said Alicia Vermaele, Executive Director of The Starbucks Foundation. “Through our latest round of Neighborhood Grants, we’re proud to support local organizations nominated by Starbucks partners who make our communities stronger”
About Cornerstone Center for Early Learning
Cornerstone Center for Early Learning is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and support services to children and families in the St. Louis area. Our mission is to nurture confident young minds and support all families.
About The Starbucks Foundation
The Starbucks Foundation strengthens humanity by transforming lives across the world, with a focus on enabling community resiliency and prosperity and uplifting communities affected by disaster. Established in 1997, The Starbucks Foundation is a section 501(c)(3) charitable organization under U.S. law. Learn more at @StarbucksStories