Braeden answering student questions at Main Street School

Celebrating World Read Aloud Day at Main Street School

On By cmanneringIn 3B Outreach1 Comment

This week, Main Street School in Irvington, New York, took part in World Read Aloud Day in a truly inspiring way. Students and staff came together to read “Just One Pebble: One Boy’s Quest to End Hunger,” a book that tells the story of our very own Braeden Mannering.

World Read Aloud Day: Sharing Stories, Changing Lives

World Read Aloud Day, celebrated on February 5th, 2025, marks its 15th anniversary this year. This global event encourages people of all ages to read aloud and share stories, highlighting the importance of literacy and the power of storytelling. Schools, libraries, and communities worldwide participate in this day to promote reading and inspire a love for books.

Braeden talking with a group of 300 students at Main Street School in Irvington, NY

Main Street School devoted a full week to “World Read Aloud Day” and ended with Braeden Mannering’s inspiring assembly on Friday morning.

From Pages to Person

After reading Braeden’s story, the students of Main Street School had an incredible opportunity. Braeden Mannering himself visited the school to speak to nearly 300 students about his journey and the importance of public service.

A Young Changemaker’s Story

Braeden with a group of students

If you are new to our website or new to Brae’s Brown Bags, you may not know how it all began. Braeden’s story is truly remarkable. At 9 years old, he founded Brae’s Brown Bags, a non-profit organization providing healthy snacks to homeless and low-income individuals. His initiative began after a visit to the White House, where First Lady Michelle Obama challenged him to “pay it forward.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Changemakers

During his visit, Braeden shared his experiences with the students, explaining how he started his non-profit and the impact it has made. His presentation not only introduced the students to Brae’s Brown Bags but also encouraged them to think about how they can make a difference in their own communities. He was able to spend time answering many of the 4th and 5th graders’ questions.

Main Street School has a curriculum that encourages its students to be makers of change. They learn how to get involved in public service and how important it is to be active community members. Braeden was very much inspired by the many students he spoke to and by the teachers and leadership who participated in planning the event and being there to make it such a success.

Braeden Mannering and Sara Reilly
Sarah Reilly and Braeden Mannering

Thank you for the invitation

We want to thank Principal Joyce Chapnick and Ms. Sarah Reilly, the Library Media Specialist, for organizing this inspiring event along with Braeden. It’s so cool that you brought the book to life and gave students a chance to meet a real-life hero who was their own age when he started his non-profit.

Spreading the Message Further

Braeden’s visit to Main Street School is just the beginning. Other schools interested in having Braeden speak to their students are encouraged to reach out. His youth activism and community service story will surely inspire students across the country. His next stop will be Wilmington Friends in March.

World Read Aloud Day reminds us of the power of stories to inspire, educate, and motivate. Braeden Mannering’s visit to Main Street School shows how one person’s story can come alive and inspire a whole new generation of readers and changemakers.

A page featuring Christy and Braeden Mannering in the Teen Biz Parent Guide book

The Teen Biz Parent Guide from Target Evolution

On By cmanneringIn Announcements1 Comment

Exciting News for Young Entrepreneurs and Their Parents

A new book has just hit the shelves, and it’s a must-read for parents of aspiring young entrepreneurs! “The Teen Biz Parent Guide,” authored by Crystal Victoria and published by Target Evolution Incorporated, is now available to help parents navigate the exciting world of youth entrepreneurship. This comprehensive guide offers invaluable advice and insights for parents whose children dream big and want to start their own businesses or charities at a young age. It’s a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of nurturing entrepreneurial skills in our youth.

Featured Success Story: 3B Brae’s Brown Bags Foundation

A page featuring Christy and Braeden Mannering in the Teen Biz Parent Guide book

One of the highlights of this book is the inspiring story of Braeden Mannering and his mother, Christy Mannering, of the 3B Brae’s Brown Bags Foundation. Their journey from a simple idea to a thriving charitable organization is featured as a prime example of what young entrepreneurs can achieve with the right support.

Braeden’s story began when he was just 9 years old, sparked by a visit to the White House and a challenge from First Lady Michelle Obama. Today, 3B Brae’s Brown Bags has distributed thousands of bags filled with healthy snacks, water, and essential information to those in need. This remarkable achievement showcases the potential of young minds when given the opportunity to make a difference.

The Importance of Parental Support

“The Teen Biz Parent Guide” emphasizes parents’ crucial role in fostering their children’s entrepreneurial spirit. Christy’s experience with Braeden demonstrates that providing encouragement and balance is key to helping young entrepreneurs thrive.

The book offers practical advice on how parents can:

  1. Encourage creativity and curiosity in their children
  2. Foster problem-solving skills essential for entrepreneurship
  3. Support without taking over, allowing children to lead and make decisions
  4. Cultivate a growth mindset that sees challenges as opportunities

Recognizing and Nurturing Big Dreams

Book cover of The Teen Biz Parent Guide from Target Evolution, Inc.

One of the most important takeaways from the book is the significance of recognizing when children want to achieve something big at a young age. It’s about listening to their ideas, no matter how ambitious they may seem, and providing the guidance and resources they need to explore their potential.

Crystal Victoria’s book serves as a roadmap for parents, offering:

  • Strategies to help children develop business acumen
  • Tips for balancing entrepreneurial pursuits with other responsibilities
  • Insights on how to turn setbacks into valuable learning experiences

A Resource for the Future

“The Teen Biz Parent Guide” is more than just a book – it’s an investment in the future. By empowering parents to support their young entrepreneurs, we’re nurturing the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and changemakers.

Whether your child dreams of starting a tech company, launching a charitable foundation like Braeden, or exploring any other entrepreneurial venture, this guide provides the tools and knowledge to help them succeed.

So, to all the parents out there with children who have big dreams and entrepreneurial spirits, grab a copy of “The Teen Biz Parent Guide.” It might just be the key to unlocking your child’s potential and setting them on the path to making their mark on the world!

North Star Elementary School 3B Brae's Brown Bags packing event

North Star Elementary spreading cheer

On By cmanneringIn 3B Ripples3 Comments

We recently wrote about North Star Elementary after visiting the school and sitting with students for a special reading night. We were impressed by their excitement about 3B Brae’s Brown Bags then, but they have kicked it up a notch and we are blown away.

The school’s STEM program had a special showcase this week. Students coded games and interactive applications inspired by 3B Brae’s Brown Bags. Amazing! We wish we could have been there to see the showcase in person! Next time!

The following day, students got together or a bag packing of 125 brown bags of healthy food for patrons of the Emmanuel Dining Room in Wilmington, Delaware. Not only did they create a wishlist of items to fill the bags, but they also colored the bags and made them extra cheerful with positive, hopeful messages!

Amanda from the North Star PTA reached out to share some photos. We are beyond grateful to all of you at North Star!

If you’re inspired by the work of 3B Brae’s Brown Bags and want to make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re interested in organizing a bag-packing event at your school, inviting Braeden to speak at your organization, or exploring other ways to get involved, we’re here to help. Simply fill out our contact form on the website, and a member of our team will reach out to discuss how we can work together. Your support can help us expand our impact and bring hope to those in need. Don’t hesitate – to take the first step towards making a positive change today by contacting 3B Brae’s Brown Bags!

A man in a coat laying on a sidewalk with a sign that says help

The Harsh Reality of Winter for the Vulnerable

On By cmanneringIn Real LifeLeave a comment

Winter poses a significant threat to those without a stable home. The National Coalition for the Homeless notes that extreme cold weather can lead to life-threatening conditions like hypothermia and frostbite, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. For those living on the streets, the cold is not just an inconvenience; it’s a matter of survival. Shelters often become overwhelmed, and many are left to brave the elements.

A man in a coat laying on a sidewalk with a sign that says help

Food Insecurity in the Cold

The cold months also bring a unique set of challenges for food-insecure households. As reported by Axios, the combination of severe winter conditions and rising food prices creates a dire situation for vulnerable populations. Families must choose between keeping the heat on or buying groceries, a decision that can lead to dangerous health outcomes, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Resources in Delaware

  • DE 211: Delaware 2-1-1 stands as a vital lifeline for those grappling with homelessness and food insecurity. This free, confidential referral and information helpline connects individuals and families to essential health and human services across Delaware and Salem County, NJ.
  • Food Bank of Delaware: Through a network of community partners, the Food Bank of Delaware distributes food to over 114,000 food-insecure individuals, providing a critical lifeline during the winter months.
  • Friendship House of Delaware: Offers a range of services to support those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. From providing meals and emergency housing to facilitating access to medical care and community engagement, Friendship House embodies the spirit of compassion and empathy, ensuring that no one has to face the harsh winter alone.

Resources in Pennsylvania

  • PA 211: This service offers a comprehensive list of extreme weather shelters across Pennsylvania, including locations like Second Avenue Commons in Pittsburgh, which provides winter shelter and overflow options during severe weather conditions.
  • Delaware County: The county’s Homeless Services Coalition and Continuum of Care work to ensure barrier-free access to services for the homeless, including emergency shelters and rapid rehousing programs.
  • Philadelphia: Organizations like Project HOME and Philly House offer emergency shelters specifically for men and families, respectively, with extended capacity during Code Blue conditions.

Resources in Maryland

  • Maryland Department of Human Services: While the Bureau of Homeless Services has moved to the Department of Housing and Community Development, resources like the Maryland Community Services Locator and Maryland 2-1-1 remain available for those in need of assistance with housing, utilities, and food.
  • Deep Roots, Clairvaux Farm: Located in Earleville, MD, this facility provides transitional housing for families with children. It offers up to 12 apartments and support services.

The Need for Comprehensive Support

The challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity during winter are multifaceted. Beyond immediate shelter and food, there’s a need for comprehensive social support systems that address the underlying issues driving these crises. Poverty, unemployment, housing affordability, healthcare access, and racial inequities all contribute to the persistent problem of food insecurity and homelessness.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, remember that help is just a call or message away. Together, we can make a difference, one warm meal and one safe night at a time.

Giving Tuesday December 2024

2024 Giving Tuesday

On By cmanneringIn 3B OutreachLeave a comment

Support 3B Brae’s Brown Bag Foundation

Giving Tuesday represents a powerful moment of collective generosity, and the 3B Brae’s Brown Bag Foundation offers everyone, no matter their age, an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in combating food insecurity.

Why Your Donation Matters

By contributing to the 3B Brae’s Brown Bag Foundation, you’re doing more than just providing food – you’re:

• Delivering hope to families struggling with hunger
• Ensuring children receive critical nutritional support
• Creating a safety net for seniors and at-risk populations
• Encouraging young people to get involved in public service through 3B Ripples

The Impact of Your Contribution

Every donation, regardless of size, translates directly into:
• Healthy 3B snack bags
• Nutritional education
• Community food distribution
• Support for families facing economic challenges

Make a Difference Today

This Giving Tuesday, transform lives by supporting an organization committed to nourishing communities and breaking cycles of food insecurity.

Donate now and be a light in a world that desperately needs human connection and support.

Facebook Fundraiser Link

PayPal Giving Page

3B Online Merch Store

North Star Elementary “Bears that Care”

On By cmanneringIn 3B Outreach, 3B Ripples2 Comments

Last night, Braeden visited North Star Elementary School during their Smores Stories event. He was invited to be a special guest reader! Brae sat in front of a group of young students and read “Just One Pebble. One Boy’s Quest to End Hunger.” (See note.) Brae received a few great questions from students listening to the story including wanting to know what we pack in our bags and how much it costs. We always love to hear their thoughts about 3B and see their gears spinning about how they can get involved!

Braeden reading to a group of young students at North Star Elementary

The mascot for North Star Elementary is a polar bear and the school is embracing this fully with their upcoming service event, “Bears that Care.” At this event, in December, the students will be packing 125 of Brae’s Brown Bags to be delivered to the Emmanuel Dining Room. The dining room is a soup kitchen in Wilmington, Delaware that we hold near and dear to our hearts. The students will be decorating the bags with messages of hope along with their librarian.

To hype the kids up the school is also putting forth an initiative to be extra kind and caring the two weeks leading to the event. Any kids caught being kind or caring will get a “bear card” that can be put in a raffle basket and the winners will get prizes. We provided some 3B swag to the school to include as prizes for their students.

We absolutely love what North Star Elementary is doing. It’s so important to teach our kiddos about public service and compassion. The messages in the book are meant to encourage young people to think about how they can make a difference in the world around them. These are lessons that will benefit them for their whole life! Many thanks to Amanda Moseley with the PTA for reaching out to invite us to be a part of the programming!

A group of students at North Star Elementary in a photo with Braeden Mannering.

Quick Note: The book, Just One Pebble, was written by Dianna Wilson Sirkovsky and illustrated by Sara Casilda. We have been asked where the money for the book goes. 3B does not get any of the proceeds from the book. However, we feel that the story is an important one to share. It is written and illustrated in a way that provides inspiration to children and lets them know that they can be changemakers no matter their age. It has also recently won awards for social justice. We’re so proud of how far and wide the story has reached.

Giving to 3B

There are many ways to donate to 3B. You can start a fundraiser on Facebook, provide us with in-kind donations like handwarmers, fruit snacks, pretzels, etc. or donate via our PayPal Giving page.

We also have a 3B Brae’s Brown Bags online store where you can buy merch!

World Mental Health Day and Food Security

Hunger and Mental Health

On By cmanneringIn AnnouncementsLeave a comment

As we observe World Mental Health Day, it’s essential to recognize the intricate link between mental health and food security. At 3B Brae’s Brown Bags, we understand that hunger is not just a physical challenge; it profoundly affects emotional well-being.

The Connection Between Hunger and Mental Health

Food insecurity, defined as the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life, impacts millions across the globe. The stress and anxiety stemming from uncertainty about where the next meal will come from can lead to feelings of hopelessness, depression, and low self-esteem. Research shows that individuals facing food insecurity are more likely to experience mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

This is something we are very familiar with because there was a long period of time when Braeden struggled with food avoidance while dealing with depression during the pandemic. This became a vicious cycle that caused years of pain and heartache for our family. Seeing him become someone else because his body was malnourished was devastating. We know how important it is to have nutritional security.

Access to nutritious food is crucial for overall mental well-being. It not only nourishes the body but also enhances mood and cognitive function. When individuals have their basic needs met, they are better equipped to focus on self-care and pursue their goals.

Supporting Those Affected by Recent Disasters

Today, our thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with those impacted by the recent hurricanes in Florida and the southern U.S. The devastation caused by these natural disasters has intensified the struggles many face, making it even more critical for us to come together as a community to support one another.For families already grappling with food insecurity, the aftermath of such events can be overwhelming. The stress of rebuilding lives while also ensuring access to food can exacerbate existing mental health challenges. At 3B Brae’s Brown Bags, we are committed to providing assistance to those in need during these trying times.

How You Can Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with hunger or mental health issues, please reach out for help. Our organization is dedicated to alleviating food insecurity in our community through various programs and partnerships. Together, we can make a difference. Let’s foster a healthier environment where everyone has access to nutritious food and the support they need for their mental well-being.

Join us in our mission to combat hunger and promote mental health awareness today! 💙

Helping during natural disasters

On By cmanneringIn 3B Outreach, 3B RipplesLeave a comment

Braeden and I have been talking a lot about how to help with the most recent disaster relief efforts happening in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

At least 190 people are known to have died as a result of the destruction left by the hurricane and we are absolutely devastated to know that so many tens of thousands more are still isolated due to all of the damage.

When disaster strikes, it is not just a moment of crisis; it becomes an opportunity for individuals and organizations to come together, transcending boundaries and differences. As seen in various relief efforts, such as those following Hurricane Irma, the outpouring of support—from monetary donations to volunteer services—demonstrates our shared humanity. Each act of kindness, no matter how small, contributes to rebuilding lives and restoring hope. Together, we can create a resilient community that not only survives but thrives, reminding us that in our darkest hours, we can find strength in unity and compassion.

Diverse group of people helping each other a water color illustration
image by Kane Lynch.

How can we help

As you know, Brae recently work with fourth graders in North Carolina on their leadership projects. He spoke to all of the fourth graders about his efforts with 3B Brae’s Brown Bags and encouraged them to think of their own ways to work in service. It takes all of us – children, adults, nonprofits, government entities, businesses, faith-based organizations, educational institutions and others – working together to help our communities when they are struggling.

Up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers will join the North Carolina National Guard in delivering supplies, food and water to isolated communities. People all around the country are looking for ways to help, including us. It makes us sad to know it takes a disaster some times to bring people together, but it makes us proud to see it happen.

Resources

Presenting 3B screenshot

4th Graders Changing the World

On By cmanneringIn 3B Outreach1 Comment

This afternoon, we talked to all the fourth-grade students at Buckhorn Creek Elementary in North Carolina. It was such a great experience to hear from these young people.

Ms. Ellis let us know that the students were working on service projects. We learned about many great things these young people would like to do. From 3-D printed ribbons to raise awareness about cancer to goodie bags with stuffed animals and stickers for cancer patients at a center in Boston (those are made by Lakelynn, who goes to Boston once a month for her own treatments). Way to go, Lakelynn, you are incredible! We also learned about students aiming to help provide basic needs to those living in poverty and a group that is working to help Veterans who might not have homes or support when they return from service. These fourth graders are changing the world!

We had great questions from so many students! Emery, Alice, Stewart and Hunter, all the students in Ms. Ellis, Ms. Murphy, Ms. Bickelhaupt, Ms. Stewart, and Ms. Mitchell’s classrooms. Everyone was so engaged, and they really made this an enjoyable, thoughtful experience.

Braeden emphasized the importance of learning from failures and the value of initiating projects, even if they don’t always succeed. He commended the group for their efforts to improve their communities and encouraged them to continue. Braeden shared his experience on how to grow an idea into a big organization, emphasizing the importance of meeting like-minded individuals, utilizing social media, and securing funding through grants or donations. Then, I added how important it is to have supportive adults nurturing their ideas.

Screenshot of Braeden Mannering in a Zoom call talking with students.

I have learned A LOT. Maybe the biggest lesson is that there is ALWAYS more to learn. Some things won’t work out the way you want them to and that’s not a failure, that’s not a fault, it’s a push to keep striving, it’s a way to grow and make progress. Sometimes those lessons are more important than immediate success. 

Braeden Mannering, Speaker, Buckhorn Creek Elementary

One student asked Braeden if he faced any challenges or if adults didn’t take him seriously when he was young. He responded by sharing that when he was still in elementary school, he didn’t really consider adults not taking him seriously. He said that he knew once he started talking that, they would listen. I’m so grateful that he felt that way. I realize that’s not something all young people experience, but we really should listen to the children around us because they are our future and their ideas are valid. He explained that his biggest challenge was knowing that he’d never be able to do it all, that it would never be enough, that his resources and time were limited, and he wouldn’t be able to help everyone.

We’re so grateful to have been invited to talk with this amazing group of students! We look forward to future collaborations and can’t wait to hear how your projects turn out!

Way to go, Buckhorn Creek Elementary in North Carolina, for encouraging your students to give back to their community! You are all rock stars!

Buckhorn Creek Elementary Fourth Graders

On By cmanneringIn Announcements3 Comments

We just can’t wait for this afternoon!

Today we’re excited to share that Braeden will be talking with the fourth graders at Buckhorn Creek Elementary in North Carolina via Zoom. We’ve learned that the students are finishing their school year by working on service projects! We love this!

Braeden can’t wait to tell the students a little bit about how he started Brae’s Brown Bags, but also to hear about the great work they these young changemakers are already doing in their school and throughout their community!

We love working with school and encouraging young people to get involved in service and leadership. There is SO MUCH HOPE for our future!

We’ll let you know how it goes and hope to receive more invites from other youth-based organizations, camps and schools interested in hearing from Brae. If you’re nearby he just might be able to visit in person!