The Bass Foundation Programs
Boy's Reading Club
This after school reading program is designed for second and third-grade boys. The Bass Foundation volunteers and teachers help illuminate the joy of literature by supporting students from the Johnnie Cochran Academy in East Orange.
The program runs every Tuesday, from 3:30 - 4:30 pm (September through May)
Back Pack Buddies
Each week, we deliver 85 bags to the Louverture School in East Orange. The bags contain kid-friendly meals, drinks and snacks to help children whose family's are struggling.
Many families depend on the school hot lunch program for their children during the school week but have insufficient food at home during the weekends.
The Bass Foundation's Back Pack Buddies helps to address this issue by providing nourishing weekend meals.
College Bound
Scholarships are awarded to Columbia High School seniors who achieve academic recognition and demonstrate financial need. This annual scholarship piggybacks our College Mentoring Program in which we mentor High School students from under-served families in pre-college prep, essay and interview support. Laptop computers are offered to students entering college on a need basis.
Senior's Thanksgiving
Resident senior citizens at the Morris County Housing facility enthusiastically anticipate our bevy of volunteers who deliver, prepare and serve a sumptuous holiday dinner. Entertainment and social interaction are also offered, along with special holiday gifts. It is our chance to make a difference to these seniors who are often forgotten.
Big Buddies Mentoring
On Saturdays throughout the school year, male Bass Foundation volunteers meet with young boys who lack a father figure in their daily lives. This program is designed to offer these students from East Orange the opportunity to forge a one-on-one “Big Buddy” positive experience where they can develop their characters and learn from role models.
Supporting Young Parents
The Bass Foundation Diaper Buddies Program provides monthly shipments of diapers and baby wipes to over 50 single-parent families in East Orange and the surrounding areas.
Jingle Bell Holiday Giveaway
At our annual Jingle Bell Holiday Giveaway event Bass Foundation volunteers distribute clothing & toys to over 500 children in East Orange. At our biggest event of the year, over 100 volunteers join us to bring holiday cheer to all of the children and families from the East Orange community.
Cozy Coats for Kids
In early November, The Bass Foundation fits every child at the Louverture School with a brand new warm winter coat. Volunteers are on hand to help the children choose their favorite styles.