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Consumer Education Foundation

Building a more trustworthy marketplace through education

BBB of Central New England's Consumer Education Foundation (CEF) is our 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm dedicated to educating consumers, supporting future leaders, and promoting ethical business practices.

Why the Foundation exists

Trust isn't built through BBB Business Accreditation alone. It grows when consumers have the knowledge to make informed decisions, students are encouraged to lead with integrity, veterans receive support to continue their education, and communities have access to free resources that help prevent fraud.

The BBB of Central New England Consumer Education Foundation was created to expand BBB's mission beyond Accreditation by investing directly in the people and communities we serve.

3

scholarship programs

SourceBBB CNE Consumer Education Foundation

Thousands

of consumers reached every year

SourceBBB CNE Consumer Education Foundation

100%

of donations stay local

SourceBBB CNE Consumer Education Foundation

Free

community education programs

SourceBBB CNE Consumer Education Foundation

Our mission in action

Promote ethics

Encouraging honesty, integrity and transparency throughout our marketplace.

Educate consumers

Providing free scam prevention programs and trusted consumer education.

Support future leaders

Funding scholarships that invest in tomorrow's ethical leaders.

Build trust

Connecting businesses, consumers and communities through education.

Scholarship programs we offer

We're pleased to use Foundation funds to offer three distinct scholarship programs each year to students and residents within our Central New England service area of Central & Western Massachusetts and Northeastern Connecticut. Learn more about each:

Barbara J Sinnott Student of Integrity Scholarship

Recognizing high school seniors who demonstrate ethical leadership, integrity, and community service.

Learn more

BBB Trades Scholarship

Helping individuals pursue careers in the skilled trades through financial assistance and encouragement.

Learn more

Textbooks for Veterans Scholarship

Supporting veterans continuing their education by helping offset the cost of textbooks and other school supplies.

Learn more
Lisa stands at podium delivering scam prevention seminar in library

Providing scam prevention programs

Our team of trained staff travel across the Central New England area to offer free educational presentations that help consumers recognize scams and protect themselves from fraud. If you're interested in hosting a scam prevention seminar for your organization, group, or community, we'd love to hear from you.

Why give?

100% local impact

Every dollar supports programs in Central & Western Massachusetts and Northeastern Connecticut.

Tax-deductible

The Consumer Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Community-powered

Made possible through generous support from Accredited Businesses.

Meet the Board

Guided by community leaders

The Consumer Education Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to strengthening our communities through education and ethical leadership.

James Madigan

President

Frederick G. Hebert

Treasurer

Karen Longo

Clerk

Barry S. Rotman

Director

Lisa K. Swanson

Assistant Clerk

Worcester Railers mascot surrounded by people laughing
How you make an impact

Help build a better marketplace

Whether you choose to donate, partner with us, volunteer, or simply attend one of our free educational programs, you can help strengthen trust throughout our community.