May 13, 2013 — BIOTONE and BIOFREEZE are pleased to introduce the Helping Hands Gifts for Growth Grant Program. This program supports the professional massage therapy student in their educational pursuits or endeavors to launch a massage therapy practice. Students can apply for one of four $1,000 grants. In addition, each winner’s school will receive a $500 grant and a $500 product package.
Industry leaders BIOFREEZE and BIOTONE share a philosophy of giving and a common goal to advance the massage profession. Over the years, these companies have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to research and scholarships and provided product donations to community and national charitable programs.
Growing market demands and client needs have changed the role of the massage therapist over the years. As massage becomes a greater part of mainstream healthcare, the therapist plays an increasingly important role in their client’s overall wellness. Market needs or their own interest may lead many students into specialties such as pain management or clinical sports massage, which require even more learning.
“We established this unique Helping Hands Gifts for Growth partnership to meet a growing demand for massage therapy services,” stated Jean Shea, president, BIOTONE. “By supporting students and the educational institutions they attend, we hope to enable more individuals to pursue massage therapy as a career.”
The grant funds can be used for program fees, books and supplies or to purchase product and equipment needed for training or launching a massage therapy practice.
“BIOFREEZE has enjoyed tremendous success working in the massage and spa industry. We believe this is a real opportunity for us to be able to contribute to its strength and its future. The health of any profession ultimately rests on its vitality and education is key to that vitality,” said Marshall Dahneke, CEO, Performance Health, makers of BIOFREEZE. “Both companies have been involved in supporting continuing education and will continue to be. This is an expansion of our efforts with a focus on first time students.”
“Through healing touch, massage therapists make a difference in the lives of others, continued Shea. “We know our educational grant program will make a difference in theirs.”
Application process: Students can apply for one of four $1,000 grants at BiotoneBiofreezeHelpingHands.com. The application requires a 100-word essay on “how as a massage therapist my helping hands will make a difference.” A team of industry representatives will review all submissions to choose the four winners. In addition to the students’ $1,000 grants, their schools will receive a $500 grant and a $500 product package. Applications must be received by Nov. 1, 2013. Winners will be notified by Dec. 1, 2013.
Source: Performance Health, biofreeze.com