U.S. Cellular Celebrates Young Humanitarian as Future of Good

U.S. Cellular llast week announced Marshfield youth, Emma Sandbothe, as one of three recipients for the second and final round of the company’s The Future of Good program. Emma was selected out of thousands of nominations from across the country as those who are bringing fairness to their communities. As a selected recipient, she will receive $10,000 to further her cause.

This recognition was revealed to Emma via a surprise celebratory parade past her home on Thursday. U.S. Cellular representations – along with local law enforcement, first responders and elected officials; individuals representing the agencies she works with and many family members and friends – honked, waved, shouted and held signs as they drove by. Emma received an oversized $10,000 check and a celebration kit, featuring technology items, a backpack, water bottle and note congratulating her on being The Future of Good.

Emma, age 9, is being recognized by U.S. Cellular’s The Future of Good program for work to help the homeless. After learning how this population in her community and nearby Springfield needed items as simple as toothpaste, Emma decided to take action. She created Emma’s Homeless Helper Project, an initiative focused on giving homeless youth and families the basic supplies they need. With the help of donors, Emma collects hygiene and non-perishable food items, plus clothing items like socks and hats, then bundles them into care “kits.” These packages are then donated to domestic violence programs and homeless shelters. To date, Emma’s Homeless Helper Project has donated close to 500 hygiene kits, 100 food kits and 300 pairs of socks. As her efforts grow, Emma is looking to set up donation boxes in her community and begin purchasing items in bulk. One day, she would like to have a storefront to serve the homeless directly.

“We are very excited to be able to gather in celebration of this amazing young humanitarian,” stated John Anguiano, area sales manager for U.S. Cellular in the Midwest Region. “Emma’s efforts, along with the others recognized through the company’s The Future of Good program, inspire and motivate us to do what we can to promote fairness in the communities we serve.”

U.S. Cellular’s The Future of Good program is in its fifth consecutive year. The company is raising awareness for youth causes and increasing their impact through financial contributions. This year, U.S. Cellular is recognizing six extraordinary young humanitarians and announced the first three recipients in February.

For more information on eligibility and to view official program rules, please go to thefutureofgood.com.