(L to R): Matt Sarcone; Brenda and David Vander Horst; Carley Farnsworth, T1D Development Manager; Jeanette Steinfeldt, T1D Market Director; Jenae Frisch; Anna Ito.
Breakthrough T1D, the leading global organization for type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy, strives to enhance everyday life for those with T1D while driving toward cures. The organization is opening doors that were once closed by T1D diagnosis, leading the way to more effective solutions by connecting the brightest minds to advance treatments, influence policy, and improve access to care. By driving innovation forward, Breakthrough T1D aims to make T1D a thing of the past. Its mission is to improve lives, both today and tomorrow, by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat T1D and its complications.
“Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) is thankful for our partnership with Commonwealth Cares. As Breakthrough T1D drives toward curing type one diabetes (T1D), we help make everyday life better for the people who face it. With Commonwealth’s incredible support, we are creating a movement to improve and change lives with T1D, advancing breakthroughs on the way to a cure.”
– Jeanette Steinfeldt,
Market Director, Breakthrough T1D Nebraska and Iowa Chapter
David Vander Horst, a project manager for our Des Moines location, nominated Breakthrough T1D for the Commonwealth Cares initiative due to his personal experience with T1D and the organization. David’s wife Brenda has lived with T1D for 42 years and has witnessed significant progress in managing her disease with the research and advancements made through Breakthrough T1D.
“Breakthrough T1D has been a cornerstone of our non-profit
efforts for many years. The dedication and support from the
community, including organizations like Commonwealth,
have been instrumental in advancing research and
improving the lives of those living with type 1 diabetes.”
– David Vander Horst,
Project Manager, Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest
David and Brenda have participated in the Breakthrough T1D Ride for 24 years, which is a destination cycling event that takes place in several stunning locations across the United States. Cyclists of all skill levels come together to raise funds for Breakthrough T1D and to take part in a weekend-long celebration that leads up to the one-day Ride.
“We are grateful for the many people we have met over the years who also have participated in the ride program (either because they have a connection to type 1 or because they just wanted to get involved with no connection to it),” said Vander Horst. “It has been such a great experience to meet people who participate just because they want to get involved and keep coming back because they love the Breakthrough T1D family just like we do.”
The Commonwealth Cares initiative formalizes all aspects of the company’s giving under the banner “Energizing Communities for a Brighter Tomorrow,” building upon local efforts and establishing a framework for more significant, strategic charitable actions. Commonwealth’s philanthropic approach is rooted in the belief that the company exists not only to deliver top-tier electrical, low voltage, and exposition services, but also to actively contribute to the betterment of its industry, customers, and communities. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and community within Commonwealth, encouraging employees to actively contribute and nominate charities that are important to them. This inclusive process allows employees to use their skills, volunteer their time, and have a say in the philanthropic direction of their company.
About Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest
Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest is a 100% Employee Owned, full-service electrical and low voltage contractor located in Arizona, Iowa, Nebraska, and Utah. Commonwealth specializes in large and small-scale commercial and industrial electrical work while offering 24/7 service, design and build assist, and pre-fabrication to ensure every project is completed with efficiency and expertise. Learn more at www.commonwealthelectric.com.
