Charities We Support

Bijou Glassworks is committed to supporting charitable organizations that reflect our core values and principles. The charities we endorse are often those with a meaningful connection to our experiences, including causes related to military service and medical conditions. We appreciate the positive influences and support we have received from various individuals and, as a gesture of gratitude, we contribute to these noteworthy organizations.

Center for Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Alliance                                   www.cedsa.org

CEDSA is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports awareness, research, and funding efforts related to Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and associated conditions. The organization also focuses on Autism due to its noted prevalence among individuals with EDS.

There is currently no cure for EDS, and some genes associated with the condition have not yet been identified. EDS manifests differently in each individual. Some families may encounter investigations by Child Protective Services because symptoms of EDS, such as easy bruising and fractures, can be misinterpreted; Munchausen by Proxy is sometimes considered. Due to limited understanding within the medical community, CEDSA collaborates with select organizations to assist families addressing these challenges. All members of our family are affected by EDS.

Cranio Care Bears                                           https://craniocarebears.org/

Cranio Care Bears is a reputable nonprofit organization established by two mothers whose children were diagnosed with craniosynostosis—a condition characterized by the premature fusion of skull sutures. This congenital defect, if not identified early, may result in long-term developmental delays. While there is no cure, surgical intervention is required, often necessitating multiple procedures to correct cranial structure.

The organization provides care packages to individuals undergoing surgery and offers vital support to their families. Additionally, Cranio Care Bears actively promotes awareness and advocates for earlier detection and intervention to help prevent future developmental challenges. Our grandson has personally benefited from their generosity and assistance.

Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Wounded Warriors, United Service Organization (USO), and Tunnels to Towers Foundation

Freedom is safeguarded by the dedication and sacrifices of those who serve in the armed forces as well as their families. Several members of our family have served during both wartime and peacetime, and we also extend our support to first responders—individuals whose contributions often go unrecognized. Delois’s grandfather made the ultimate sacrifice during WWII, while her father served in the Navy throughout the Vietnam era. Eugene’s grandfather, a corporal in the French Army during WWII, evaded capture and joined the French underground. His father was a member of the Navy Air Corps during WWII, forming part of an elite “Hail Mary” squad that, fortunately, was not deployed to Japan following the atomic bombings.

We have selected these distinguished organizations due to their meaningful impact on veterans and first responders, especially those facing hardship or danger. We express our sincere gratitude to all veterans and to the organizations dedicated to enhancing veterans' well-being and morale.

Farm Aid, and Future Farmers of America (FFA)

Small family farms have faced significant challenges in sustaining their operations and supporting their families. Farm Aid has highlighted these issues since the 1980s and continues to raise awareness for the importance of individual family farms today. The Future Farmers of America (FFA) is an organization dedicated to educating youth about agriculture, emphasizing the value of hard work and the skills necessary for successful farming. Members of FFA are recognized for their professionalism and courtesy, and supporting their development is regarded as a meaningful investment in the future of agriculture.