The iCare Foundation Celebrates 10 Years of Making a Difference

Across our community of schools, Learning Care team members give everything to the children and families we serve, whether they’re teaching in the classroom or providing support at the corporate level. The iCare Foundation exists to lend them a hand in return when they need it most. 

Why? Because when tough times happen, no one should face it alone. 

Created in 2016, the nonprofit organization helps employees navigate unexpected hardships through grants funded by donations, fundraising events, and the generosity of the Learning Care community and its supporters.  

As we celebrate the iCare Foundation's 10th anniversary, we're reflecting on the people behind the mission, the impact we've made together, and the culture of care that makes it all possible. 

The heart of our community 

Each day, Learning Care team members help children learn, grow, and thrive while supporting families and building a brighter future, one child at a time. The iCare Foundation aims to share the same kindness in return. 

Whether facing the aftermath of a house fire, recovering from a natural disaster, coping with domestic abuse, struggling with housing insecurity, worrying about utility expenses, or managing unexpected funeral costs, Learning Care employees can request assistance. 

The iCare Foundation provides financial support so employees in need can focus on rebuilding, recovering, and moving forward. For one recipient, it gave her the help she needed to focus on making memories with her children. 

“It was during the holidays,” Miss Shakita reveals. “I have 4 kids, so do I get a Christmas tree? Do I not? You know, my lights are off.” This Lead Infant Teacher at The Children’s Courtyard in Concord, North Carolina, received the foundation’s Utility Assistance Grant after an unexpected circumstance led her to fall behind on payments.  

A decade of meaningful impact

For 10 years, the iCare Foundation has provided compassionate support to Learning Care employees across the country. 

Every grant represents a person. Every application represents a family. Every donation represents someone choosing to help a person they’ve likely never met. 

"My husband passing away was very unexpected. I had no financial plan to be a single mom. We had a son. He was 7 months old at the time, so that was also something I was navigating," explains Meaghan, a Field Recruiter who received a Funeral Assistance Grant from the foundation.  

Stories like these are a reminder that the foundation's impact cannot be measured by dollars alone. It is measured in hope, stability, and reassurance from a caring community. 

Powered by generosity

The success of the iCare Foundation would not be possible without the support of Learning Care employees, leaders, vendors, partners, and donors who believe in its mission. 

From payroll contributions and individual donations to fundraising initiatives like an annual golf outing, every contribution helps ensure assistance is available when employees need it most. 

"The unwavering care demonstrated by our board members, volunteers, and supporters continues to inspire me every day," says iCare Board of Directors President, Heather Vucinaj. "Behind every event, every donation, and every act of service are people who generously give their time and talents to help others. Watching this community come together year after year to make a meaningful difference is remarkable. Together, we are proving that when people lead with compassion and purpose, extraordinary things can happen."

Looking ahead

The iCare Foundation is more than an employee assistance program. It reflects who we are as an organization and how important it is to make sure our team members feel valued and supported. 

That commitment has been at the heart of the iCare Foundation for the last decade and remains just as important today. As the nonprofit enters its second decade, its mission remains clear. 

Our team members give everything to the children and families in our schools. The iCare Foundation is here to give back to them. When hardship comes, no one should face it alone. 

For 10 years, we've helped employees overcome challenges, provided hope during difficult times, and strengthened the strong sense of community that makes our organization special. 

Together, we will continue making a difference for years to come. 

To learn more about the iCare Foundation visit icarefoundation.org.