Community Social Responsibility

nuEra is committed to being a positive and impactful member of the communities in which we operate. Without the people in our communities, we would not exist as a business, so to honor this fact, each month we run a campaign of giving back to our local Illinois communities via various fundraising initiatives. Since 2020 we have given over half a million dollars to worthy causes.

“We don’t treat community giving as an add-on; it’s part of how we operate,” said Laura Jaramillo, nuEra’s Chief Operating Officer. “Cannabis is still misunderstood by many. Showing up consistently for causes that matter to our customers builds trust and helps us normalize cannabis through real, human connections, not ad campaigns.”

Since 2021, every October, nuEra dispensaries across Illinois unite for a powerful cause: Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Through our annual “Doobies for Boobies” campaign, we’ve raised both awareness and funds for impactful nonprofits like Gilda’s Club and Pink Heals. Each year, customers can support the cause by purchasing special-edition nuEra BCA-branded products—like pre-rolls and edibles—or by donating directly at checkout. Our stores also share resources on how to give directly to our nonprofit partners. It’s our way of giving back, honoring survivors, and supporting ongoing care in our communities.

nuEra is proud to stand with our Veterans—not just on Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day, but year-round. Over the years, we’ve hosted dedicated fundraising campaigns honoring those who’ve served, including a multi-year partnership with the Balanced Veterans Network. This collaboration has included a month-long fundraiser, BVN in-store pop-ups to educate customers, and Breakfast Buds events—welcoming Veterans into our dispensaries for cannabis education and peer connection. We offer a standing 10% discount to all U.S. Veterans and go the extra mile to help those without a medical card navigate the application process—often securing reduced fees or getting the costs covered entirely. Guided by insights from Veterans on our team, we’re committed to making cannabis more accessible for those seeking alternative treatments for physical and mental health.

nuEra, honoring Black History Month and Juneteenth means more than recognition—it means action. Each year, we spotlight these pivotal moments with fundraisers that support impactful organizations like Brave Space Alliance, the South Shore Chamber of Commerce, and the Care More Foundation, the non-profit arm of Moore’s Brewing. These efforts have also included a partnership with Chicago historian Sherman “Dilla” Thomas and his Mahogany Tours. Together, we’ve hosted ticket giveaways for his acclaimed “Black History of Chicago” bus tours, creating opportunities for education, celebration, and community connection.

Every June, nuEra proudly celebrates Pride Month with a fundraising campaign in support of Howard Brown Health—a trailblazing organization providing affirming healthcare and vital services to the LGBTQ+ community across Illinois and beyond. In the spirit of visibility and advocacy, we offer multiple ways for customers to join the cause: from percentage of purchase donations via nuEra Pride-branded products and accessories, to donating directly at checkout. Throughout the month, our dispensaries spotlight Howard Brown’s incredible work, sharing resources on how to contribute or volunteer. It’s more than a campaign—it’s our commitment to equity, wellness, and community.

We hear stories every day from customers who’ve found relief, healing, or balance through cannabis. That spirit of transformation is what drives our giving. We don’t just sell cannabis—we support the communities that have helped build this industry.

One of our proudest initiatives is through education and consultation at our 3 licensed Medical Dispensaries. Medical Patients and Recreational customers alike have the opportunity to book free private consultations with each of our Medical Patient Advisors to discuss the care and products that they are looking for.