ACCESS CARES FOUNDATION DONATES $50,000 TO EVERYSTEP’S AMANDA THE PANDA IN MEMORY OF JEFF RUDEN

Access Cares Foundation Donates $50,000 to EveryStep’s Amanda the Panda in Memory of Jeff Ruden

[Waukee, IA] – February 3, 2025 – Access Cares Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Access Systems, is proud to announce a $50,000 donation to EveryStep’s Amanda the Panda grief support program, in memory of Jeff Ruden, former Vice President of Service at Access Systems, who passed away in March 2022.

Jeff Ruden was a cherished member of the Access Systems family and a passionate advocate for community service, especially missions that uplifted children. Jeff, along with the Access Systems team, demonstrated unwavering support for Amanda the Panda through countless acts of service, including preparing materials for grief programs, volunteering to open the Grief Center on West Grand Avenue, and participating in various fundraising events such as golf tournaments, galas, and EveryStep’s Amazing FundRacer event.

“Jeff was always the first to raise his hand when it came to supporting our community,” said Shane Sloan, CEO of Access Systems. “His kindness, generosity, and commitment to giving back left an indelible mark on all of us. This donation ensures his legacy of compassion continues to bring hope and healing to those navigating the journey of grief.”

The $50,000 donation will directly support Amanda the Panda’s grief and loss programs, which provide essential resources to individuals and families coping with the death of loved ones and other significant life losses. These services include support groups, holiday cheer boxes, school-based support, and remembrance events—all designed to foster healing and connection.

“I am absolutely humbled and in awe of this kindness, generosity and trust in the work we are doing. I cannot thank the leadership at Access Systems and the Access Cares Foundation enough,” said Tray Wade, president and CEO of EveryStep. “We will proudly utilize these funds to ensure our community is getting the grief and loss support it needs and deserves.”

Jeff’s passing left a profound loss for his family, friends, and colleagues. Access Systems and the Access Cares Foundation aim to celebrate Jeff’s life and his heartfelt dedication to helping others through this memorial donation. It is with hope and gratitude that this gift will bring comfort to those experiencing grief and keep Jeff’s spirit of service alive.

Access Cares Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Access Systems, committed to creating positive change in the communities it serves. Through volunteerism, charitable donations, and community partnerships, Access Cares strives to support initiatives that promote education, well-being, and social impact.

Amanda the Panda, a program of EveryStep, offers compassionate grief support services to children and families after the death of a loved one. Through a variety of programs, including support groups, holiday cheer boxes, school-based programs, community outreach activities and special events, EveryStep’s Amanda the Panda program provides a safe space for healing and connection. To learn more, please visit https://www.everystep.org/services/grief-loss/about-amanda-the-panda