Our Story
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How It Began
In 2020, during quarantine, Amanda Kossoff had a simple idea: what if popcorn could do more than satisfy cravings? Determined to make an impact, she began making and selling popcorn, donating all profits to charity.
Word spread quickly, and as demand grew, her family’s home became a hub of production. Realizing she needed more space, she took the next step.
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The Journey to Pop for a Cause
In 2021, Amanda launched Pop for a Cause, Inc., donating all proceeds to charitable causes. With help from her family, volunteers, and a partnership for commercial kitchen space, the organization grew. During the next two years, we collaborated with organizations big and small. By 2024, demand led to the creation of Custom Pop Shop LLC for online orders, while Pop for a Cause continued thriving through events and fundraising efforts.
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Looking Ahead
In 2025, we’re launching the “Pop at Home” initiative to bring our mission to more communities.
From a simple idea to a growing movement, we’re committed to “Giving Back, One Kernel at a Time.”
Thank you for being part of our journey!
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Founder
A graduate of Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, MD Amanda Kossoff is currently a student at University of Pennsylvania in the Vagelos Program in Life Sciences and Management. Her involvement at school ranges from a member of Locust Bioventures to an active participant in Arts House, a student run dance company. Her love for popcorn, especially kettle flavor, lives on!
Board Members
Executive Director
Originally from New Jersey, Liz Kossoff has lived in Maryland for over 20 years. After a successful career in finance at Ernst & Young and Discovery Communications, Liz found herself leading Pop for a Cause, Inc., a popcorn nonprofit, when her daughter Amanda left for college.
A passionate lifelong learner, Liz embraced the challenge, launching Custom Pop Shop to manage online orders, partner with new organizations, and expand the mission’s impact. Her creativity and dedication prove that even popcorn can make a difference
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Student Board
High School Chapters
Poolesville High School
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Sahasra
Quince Orchard High School
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Anousha
Walt Whitman High School
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Alexa
Seneca Valley High School
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Mya
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Malia
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Keira
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Janelle
Damascus High School
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Noa
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Caitlyn
Walter Johnson High School
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Shoshana
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Abby
Watkins Mill High School
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Roselle
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Tahreem
Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School
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Ashley
Good Counsel High School
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