In the Spring of 2001, the Lance Armstrong Foundation generously provided funding to conduct a pilot support group for children who have a parent with cancer. Upon completion, the program was evaluated and shown to be extremely beneficial for the children and families involved. Wonders & Worries was incorporated on August 8, 2001 and the necessary paperwork was filed to obtain 501 (c) 3 status from the Internal Revenue Service.
Today, W&W professional staff of Child Life Specialists works with more than 2,000 individuals in over 400 families affected by illnesses like cancer, ALS, MS, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and more. The illnesses may be different, but the challenges our families face are the same. They fight to keep their families intact, and maintain a sense of normalcy and stability for their children. To our knowledge, the Wonders & Worries model of using professional Child Life Specialists to help children cope with a family member’s illness is the first of its kind.
In July 2005, the W&W Board approved a strategic plan to expand and strengthen the organization in preparation for the duplication of W&W nationwide. Phase 1 of the plan has been completed, and the Board’s Expansion Committee has begun work to meet its goal of expanding W&W to five new communities by 2013. We believe all children affected by a loved one’s serious illness have the right to the same help received by Alayna, age 9, who says “The Wonders and Worries program has changed me. I’ve gained hope, faith, confidence, and memories. I hope that other kids will be inspired, just like me.”
