Nucar Cares
Here are some of the great organizations the Nucar Cares program works with within Massachusetts.
Last Hope K9 Rescue
Last Hope K9 Rescue (LHK9) is a Massachusetts-based non-profit organization dedicated to saving dogs from high-kill shelters. This all-breed rescue focuses on providing a second chance to abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs, regardless of their age, breed, or medical condition. Through a network of committed volunteers, LHK9 ensures that each dog receives necessary medical treatment and foster care before being transported to New England, where they are placed in loving, permanent homes.
LHK9 is entirely volunteer-run, relying on a passionate team to foster dogs, organize adoption events, and educate the community on important issues like spaying, neutering, and responsible pet ownership. Since its founding in 2012, LHK9 has found homes for over 12,000 dogs, transforming lives and offering hope to countless animals in need. The organization’s dedication to every dog’s well-being and its commitment to education make it a vital resource for both the animals it saves and the communities it serves.
Susan G. Komen® MORE THAN PINK Walk
The Susan G. Komen® MORE THAN PINK Walk is a powerful community event that goes beyond raising awareness of breast cancer. Evolving from the well-known Race for the Cure, this walk series has united over 100,000 participants nationwide, raising more than $60 million since its inception in 2018. The Walk serves as a crucial fundraising initiative, supporting groundbreaking research, advocacy, and vital programs aimed at achieving the ultimate goal: a world without breast cancer.
Inclusive and accessible, the event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, including breast cancer survivors, those undergoing treatment, and individuals living with metastatic breast cancer. The Walk is more than just an event; it’s a space for connection, where participants share their stories and passions, fostering a sense of community and support.
By supporting the Komen Massachusetts MORE THAN PINK Walk, you’re joining a movement that’s about more than just pink ribbons—it’s about making tangible progress towards a future free of breast cancer.
Neponset River Regional Chamber
The Neponset River Regional Chamber has been a cornerstone for businesses in the Neponset River region since 1894. Originally known as the Norwood Business Association, the Chamber has evolved over the years to support a diverse array of businesses, from large national corporations to small and medium enterprises. With over 500 members, the Chamber offers a variety of resources, including structured networking groups, industry-specific alliances, and public policy advocacy.
Members benefit from initiatives like the Human Resources Alliance, Elder Care Alliance, and Women’s Leadership Alliance, which foster collaboration on projects of mutual interest. The Government Affairs Committee keeps members informed on legislation impacting business operations, while structured networking and leads groups help businesses grow and connect. The Chamber’s hands-on committees and expert staff work together to enhance member services, improve public image, and maintain strong relationships with policymakers.
Joining the Neponset River Regional Chamber provides businesses with numerous advantages, such as member-to-member discounts, access to expert advice, and opportunities for community involvement. By supporting local enterprises and promoting economic development, the Chamber plays a vital role in helping businesses in the Neponset River region thrive.
Rainbows Pride 5K & Concert
The Rainbows Pride 5K & Concert is an annual event organized by the Boston Theater Company to celebrate LGBTQ+ arts and athletics. Held at the Boston Common Bandstand, this unique event invites participants of all gender identities to join in a supportive and inclusive athletic experience. The 5K race, which is accessible to various athletic abilities, offers participants the option to complete the course at their own pace, with awards presented in a gender-neutral manner.
Funds raised from the event help provide free or discounted tickets to those who cannot afford them, ensuring financial inclusivity. Any additional funds support the Queer Voices Festival, further amplifying LGBTQ+ voices in the arts. The Rainbows Pride 5K & Concert promotes inclusivity, social responsibility, and the celebration of diversity within the community. With ASL interpretation, ADA accessibility, and a pay-what-you-can model, this event embodies the Boston Theater Company’s mission to create inclusive and empowering experiences for marginalized communities.
Massachusetts Veterans of Foreign Wars
The Massachusetts VFW Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Relying solely on individual donations and corporate sponsorships, the Foundation receives no government funding. Its mission is to back the core programs of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and other veteran service groups, providing essential services to the community.
The Foundation offers crucial financial assistance to troops and their families, addressing needs such as housing, medical care, and basic necessities through one-time grants. It also sponsors “welcome home” and “send-off” events to boost the morale of military units returning or being deployed. Furthermore, the Foundation assists veterans in navigating VA entitlements and disability claims, ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve.
By donating to the Massachusetts VFW Foundation, you can make a significant impact on the lives of Massachusetts veterans and their families, helping meet vital needs and improve their quality of life. Contributions are tax-deductible and directly support those who have served our country.
Greater Lowell Tech Lacrosse
The Greater Lowell Tech Lacrosse Team embodies the spirit of teamwork, discipline, and leadership, pivotal elements of the school’s athletic philosophy. At Greater Lowell Tech, athletics is not just about competition; it’s a comprehensive program aimed at fostering the physical, emotional, and social growth of each student-athlete. Through participation in lacrosse and other sports, students learn invaluable life lessons such as accountability, sportsmanship, and commitment, which are essential for their development into well-rounded individuals.
The school’s commitment to creating an inclusive and nurturing environment is evident in its approach to coaching and player development. Coaches are tasked with the challenge of building players’ self-esteem and technical skills in a positive manner, focusing on personal praise and constructive criticism. This approach ensures that every student-athlete, regardless of their level of play, receives the support and guidance needed to reach their full potential.
Greater Lowell Tech also prioritizes the health and safety of its student-athletes, requiring regular physical exams and offering an eco-friendly online registration process for sports participation. By placing a higher value on personal growth and team unity over the pursuit of victory, the Greater Lowell Tech Lacrosse Team offers its members a unique opportunity to excel both on and off the field, embodying the true essence of youth sports.
Nashoba Youth Hockey Association
The Nashoba Youth Hockey Association (NYHA) serves as a beacon for community and sportsmanship in Westford, Littleton, and Tyngsboro, instilling a love for ice hockey among the youth. At the heart of NYHA’s mission is the belief in teaching not just the skills of hockey but also the values of good sportsmanship and citizenship. This philosophy is evident in their comprehensive programs, which start with foundational “Learn-to-Skate” and “Learn to Play Hockey” courses and extend to competitive travel teams for various age groups, including girls-only teams. NYHA’s commitment to community shines through their active involvement with local charitable organizations and the provision of numerous volunteer opportunities for parents and community members. The 2024 Nashoba Hockey Golf Tournament at Wedgewood Pines Country Club is more than just a day on the greens; it’s an opportunity to support the ongoing efforts of NYHA to foster a robust, inclusive, and nurturing environment for young athletes to thrive in the sport they love and in their personal development. This event underscores the community’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes and leaders through the spirited game of hockey.
Tyngsboro Youth Football and Cheer
Tyngsboro Youth Football and Cheer (TYFC) is a cornerstone of the Tyngsboro community and surrounding areas, including Chelmsford, Dracut, Dunstable, Groton, and Lowell. As a member of the Central Mass Football and Cheerleading Conference, TYFC dedicates itself to fostering a nurturing, positive, and safe environment for youth to engage in football and cheerleading.
At TYFC, the mission is clear: to offer a platform where young athletes can grow not only in their chosen sports but also in life skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and academic achievement. The programs are designed with safety and inclusivity at the forefront. Flex Football provides a gentle introduction to the sport, emphasizing fundamental skills and safe contact, ideal for younger participants. The tackle football program ramps up the intensity while upholding strict safety protocols, including mandatory conditioning hours before practice with equipment.
Cheerleading at TYFC is no less rigorous, blending dance, gymnastics, and stunts in competitive routines. Open to all, with no tryouts and no prior experience required, it offers a supportive environment where every athlete can excel and learn. This inclusive approach ensures that each participant, whether on the field or cheering from the sidelines, benefits from a comprehensive, enjoyable, and enriching experience.
Nichols College – Dudley, MA
In the fall of 2021, Nichols College made an impressive enhancement to Vendetti Field with the addition of a cutting-edge digital scoreboard.
Standing tall at 30 feet, this remarkable signage was generously donated by Nucar, a subsidiary of the esteemed DCD Automotive Group located in Norwood and owned by the Dagesse family. Meticulously crafted by Digital Scoreboards LLC, the scoreboard is a testament to modern technology and innovation.
The college commemorated this milestone with a joyous ceremony held at Vendetti Field, a fitting prelude to the commencement of the college’s Homecoming football game on September 23rd.
Nichols Athletic Director, Eric Gobiel, expressed his elation over the new addition, stating, “The new video board is undoubtedly a game-changer for Nichols and our athletic department, ushering in a whole new interactive experience for our devoted fans and dedicated student-athletes.” He further conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the Dagesse family for their extraordinarily generous gift and unwavering support.
With this state-of-the-art digital scoreboard, Nichols College embarks on a new era of sports entertainment, embracing the future with enthusiasm and gratitude to those who made it all possible.
Kennedy-Donovan Center – Foxborough, MA
KDC’s innovative methodology transforms the lives of children, adults, and families navigating developmental delays, disabilities, or adversities, yielding profound and positive results. At the heart of Kennedy-Donovan Center’s (KDC) success lies a distinctive fusion of cutting-edge data-driven strategies, an extensive array of family and community-oriented services, and an unwavering commitment to empowering individuals.
Through collaborative partnerships with families, caregivers, professionals, and the broader community, including DCD, KDC ensures the delivery of top-tier human services, elevating the quality of life for those it serves.
Marshfield Fair – Marshfield, MA
Since its establishment in 1862 and continuing to this day, the primary objectives of the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society have remained steadfast: to foster, enhance, and advance the realms of agriculture, horticulture, mechanical arts, and their interconnected fields. The inaugural gathering, masterminded by Levi Walker and George Martin Baker amidst the turmoil of the Civil War, brought together local residents to delve into agricultural matters. Known as the South Marshfield Farmer’s Club, this momentous event marked the inception of what has evolved into the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society—a beacon of agricultural discourse, epitomized by the much-awaited annual Marshfield Fair, scheduled from August 19th to 28th in 2022.
As a nonprofit organization, the Marshfield Agricultural and Horticultural Society is dedicated to fostering, preserving, and encouraging agricultural pursuits while enlightening the wider public on their significance. Throughout the year, the fairgrounds host a plethora of events, but the pinnacle on the calendar is undoubtedly the annual fair.
Nestled along the picturesque coast, midway between the vibrant city of Boston and the enchanting Cape Cod, the Marshfield fairgrounds boast a myriad of agricultural edifices, teeming with thousands of exhibitor entries and hundreds of lively animals. Beyond that, a vibrant midway offers entertainment aplenty, complemented by thrilling live motorsports and daily shows that cater to diverse demographics. Truly, there’s something to captivate everyone’s interest!
This year’s Marshfield Fair promises to be an unmissable experience, embodying the Society’s longstanding commitment to the enrichment of agriculture and horticulture, all while celebrating the joyous spirit of community engagement.
Hidden Battles
Hidden Battles is a commendable nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the mental health of those who protect and serve our communities—veterans, firefighters, police officers, and first responders. These heroes face unimaginable challenges daily, often carrying the weight of traumatic experiences that can lead to depression, PTSD, and suicidal tendencies.
Understanding the critical need for mental health support, Hidden Battles offers a variety of programs aimed at preserving the well-being of these brave individuals. Their efforts include providing access to treatment and counseling, helping to ease the transition to civilian life, and ensuring that our defenders do not face their struggles alone.
The organization’s innovative approach includes unique activities like monthly chef-led cooking therapy classes, which not only teach valuable skills but also help strengthen family bonds. Team-building events such as Rucking encourage camaraderie and peer support, vital for mental resilience. Additionally, Hidden Battles organizes participation in awareness-raising events like Run for the Troops and community walks, alongside hosting family-oriented movie nights to foster a sense of community and relaxation.
Through these initiatives, Hidden Battles continues to offer a lifeline to those who have dedicated their lives to serving others, ensuring they receive the support and recognition they deserve.
Officer Sean A. Collier Memorial Fund
TThe Officer Sean A. Collier Memorial Fund honors the legacy of MIT Police Officer Sean Collier, who tragically lost his life on April 18, 2013, following the Boston Marathon bombing. Established to strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the communities they serve, the Memorial Fund actively fosters relationships through a variety of community-oriented programs.
Significantly, the Fund has been instrumental in developing initiatives that provide meaningful interactions between police officers and community members. These programs range from Community Sporting Events and National Night Out celebrations to educational and mentorship opportunities like Coffee with a Cop and Shop with a Cop events. Each initiative is designed not only to honor Officer Collier’s dedication to community service but also to promote mutual respect and understanding across diverse communities.
Moreover, the Memorial Fund has expanded to include impactful activities like a swimming program for underprivileged children, aiming to reach more communities each year. This initiative reflects the Fund’s commitment to not just community safety but also to enhancing the quality of life for children through engaging, supportive activities.
Through annual fundraising events like the Boston Marathon and the Sean A. Collier Memorial Golf Tournament, along with generous public contributions, the Fund continues to make a lasting difference, embodying Officer Collier’s spirit of service and sacrifice.
New England Stars Youth Hockey
The New England Stars Youth Hockey program continues to be a beacon of athletic development in the New England area. As members of the Premier Hockey League of New England (NEPHL), the Stars are dedicated to cultivating young talent and preparing them for the next levels of play.
With a commitment to creating a robust hockey environment, the program emphasizes skill development, strength conditioning, and agility through daily engagement on and off the rink. The Stars boast a highly certified professional staff, whose passion for hockey inspires a dedication that is mirrored by the players, coaches, administrators, and parents involved.
The New England Stars offer programs tailored to nurture budding athletes from an early age. Their “Learn to Skate” program introduces children aged 3-9 to the fundamentals of skating, such as forward and backward movements and stops and starts. Meanwhile, the “Learn to Play Hockey” program for ages 5-9 focuses on small area games, stick handling, and the basics of passing and shooting, ensuring a comprehensive groundwork for future hockey stars.
Joining the New England Stars means becoming part of a culture that values growth, teamwork, and the joy of hockey, setting the stage for young athletes to thrive within and beyond the rink.