HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Riedel Foundation has awarded a $2,700 matching grant to Mission 180 to help launch its new Life Skills Development Program, an initiative designed to equip vulnerable youth with practical skills for independent living.
The program will serve underprivileged youth, foster children, teens aging out of foster care, and children on the autism spectrum. Mission 180 will use the Riedel Foundation grant to purchase essential startup supplies such as cooking materials, kitchen safety equipment, laundry supplies, and sanitation items for their classes.
“So many young people grow up without the support or basic skills they need as adults,” said Michael Bukstein, Lead Trustee of the Riedel Foundation. “This grant helps Mission 180 give them real, hands-on experience, but it also puts them in contact with adults who can be role models in their lives.”
Mission 180’s Life Skills Development Program will offer structured instruction in areas such as basic cooking, meal preparation, kitchen safety, laundry care, personal hygiene, financial stability, tutoring, and daily living routines. The program is integrated into Mission 180’s existing mentorship framework, allowing youth already engaged in weekly programming to deepen their learning in a supportive, faith-centered environment.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Riedel Foundation’s investment in this program,” said Stephanie Morris, President of Mission 180. “This matching grant allows us to create a fully functioning, hands-on learning space where youth can gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive. The Foundation’s support multiplies the impact of our community and helps us build something that will last for years to come.”
Mission 180 started as an outreach program of Compassion Church in Hannibal, but recently reorganized to form its own nonprofit organization. Last fall, the group purchased the former Eugene Field Elementary School and will operate services from there. They partner with other local nonprofits, school districts, healthcare agencies, and community volunteers, with continued support from the church. You can find more information on the Mission 180 Facebook page or by email, [email protected]
The Riedel Foundation, established in 2000, provides grants to nonprofit organizations that improve the quality of life for Hannibal residents. Since its founding, the Foundation has awarded millions of dollars to programs that support youth, strengthen families, and enhance community well-being.