Rene Lillian Greco Foundation

Meet Rene!

Rene Lillian Greco was born with hydrocephalus and lived a life defined by kindness, determination, and joy. She worked proudly as a barista at 321 Coffee, where her warmth touched thousands. Rene also volunteered as a basketball coach for the Journey League, helping others with IDD discover confidence and community. This foundation exists to ensure her light continues to shine.

Our Mission

The Rene Lillian Greco Foundation is a North Carolina nonprofit corporation formed to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (“IDD”). The Organization’s programs are designed to promote independence, dignity, inclusion, and quality of life through employment support, inclusive recreation, and community-based assistance.

Program 1: Employment Pathways & Vocational Support

The Organization will provide financial assistance and programmatic support to individuals with IDD to help them obtain and maintain meaningful employment. Assistance may include job readiness training, vocational certifications, transportation assistance, uniforms, adaptive tools, and workplace support services. This program is inspired by Rene Lillian Greco’s meaningful employment as a barista at 321 Coffee, where she demonstrated the power of inclusive employment to foster confidence, independence, and community connection.

Program 2: Inclusive Recreation & Sports Support

The Organization will support inclusive recreational and athletic opportunities for individuals with IDD, including leagues, camps, and community-based sports programs. Support may include grants for equipment, facility use, coaching stipends, and program accessibility. This program is inspired by Rene’s volunteer service as a basketball coach for the Journey League, where she encouraged athletes with IDD and fostered teamwork, self-confidence, and joy.

Program 3: Individual & Community Assistance Grants

The Organization will provide small grants or direct assistance to individuals with IDD or to nonprofit partners serving the IDD community. Assistance may include adaptive equipment, lifeskills education, enrichment programs, and resources that remove barriers to participation and independence.

Contact Us

Interested in working together or learning more? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly.