From Maddi’s Closet Looks to Enhance Assistance for Children With Cancer

Lamplighter Staff Report

Helping children suffering from cancer was the focus of the From Maddi’s Closet Board of Directors meeting this week as it works on a Strategic Plan to increase the non-profit organization’s effectiveness.

The Strategic Plan process began with Board Members doing a candid assessment of the organization’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

Among the strengths Board Members identified were: the clarity of its mission to help children suffering from cancer, its local focus and relatively small size, the passion and commitment of those assisting the organization, good donor support, strong youth involvement, positive reputation, personal connection to the community, and relations within the medical profession. Board Members also noted the group’s good financial stewardship and record of efficiency in performing a large amount of work with no paid employees.

In terms of limitations, the Board noted that the needs of young cancer patients in Los Angeles and Orange Counties far exceed the resources currently available to From Maddi’s Closet. The Board cited a need to grow existing revenues in order to better serve patients, and to ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization as it works to address those needs. Volunteer resources will also require expansion to meet the growing needs in the fight against pediatric cancer.

Several opportunities for growth and enhancements were discussed by Board Members who indicated that the From Maddi’s Closet message can be extended to additional communities in the area. Comments were also supportive of exploring partnerships with other organizations and developing new fundraising events.

Challenges facing From Maddi’s Closet were discussed as being largely external and similar to those facing other non-profit organizations. Looming changes in health insurance coverage and tax laws have the potential for increasing the amount of patient costs not covered by insurance and reducing the funds available to provide necessary patient services, equipment, and assistance. Such changes could negatively impact the organization’s ability to carry out its mission without securing additional financial support.

From Maddi’s Closet, a local nonprofit organization, began more than a decade ago after Madison Leslie Holmes lost her battle with cancer at four years of age.

Maddi’s family and friends formed the organization to carry on the extraordinary spirit of generosity and compassion Maddi showed to other children fighting cancer. Despite her illness, Maddi befriended other children undergoing treatment, and gave her own toys and clothing to those in need. She asked her family to sit with other children who were more sick, frightened or lonely when they had no family members at the hospital.

Participation in From Maddi’s Closet has grown, and the organization has broadened its efforts to support children with cancer. The group raises funds for pediatric cancer research, and offers services and support to ill children and their families whose emotional and financial needs are unmet by other assistance programs.

From Maddi’s Closet, a 501 (c)(3) Nonprofit Public Charity, benefits children suffering from cancer at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Children’s Hospital Orange County and beyond. From Madddi’s Closet gives volunteer, emotional and financial support for patients and their families, conducts public awareness efforts regarding children’s cancer, and supports medical research at these institutions.

Contributions to From Maddi’s Closet help fund much-needed patient support programs, public awareness efforts, and childhood cancer medical research. These efforts bring love, hope and joy to children confronting the challenges of cancer.

To make a gift by mail, send your check or money order to From Maddi’s Closet, 15519 Surrey Lane, La Mirada, CA 90638, Donations may also be made online at www.frommaddiscloset.org. For information call 562 947-3094.