Inspired by Berks youngster Delaney Brown and her fight with pediatric cancer, Laney’s Legacy of Hope, a nonprofit organization, was founded in 2014 by her parents in her memory. Laney lost her battle on Christmas Day of 2013, but her spirit of courage, her hope and her fashionista sense of style lives on and has touched the lives of many.
Laney’s Legacy of Hope is comprised of a board of both family and friends, including President and Laney’s mom, Jennifer Capone-Brown, Vice President and Laney’s Aunt, Jenell Wolf, Secretary and Laney’s grandmother, Linda Capone, and four others who fill various supporting roles. All members are volunteers.
Their mission is to engage in fundraising activities to provide assistance to support research projects and treatment options for pediatric high-risk cancer patients with the goal of finding cures and means of prevention. The nonprofit also provides assistance to children and their families as they navigate a pediatric cancer diagnosis. Jenell says, “What’s amazing is that Laney’s story has continued on through other kids that are fighting.”
Spreading Help & Hope
Recognizing the financial burdens that can arise during these tough fighting times, Laney’s Legacy of Hope has a unique way of helping families. Jenell says, “What we do that’s a little different is that we just give straight cash, and they can use it for whatever they want. What Jenn wanted to do was just remove that financial barrier for parents. Whatever they want to use it for, whether it’s for play or necessities, we do not set any limits to that.” She continues, “We want to be different in that we recognize that it’s such a challenging time for families that we just want to make the time that they have with their loved ones as meaningful as it can be.”
Of the funds raised, 50 percent goes right to families, while 40 percent goes to research and 10 percent to operational costs. To date, the nonprofit has served about 109 kids, as Laney’s Fighters, and has awarded three checks totaling $300,000 to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
Putting the Fun in Fundraising
Four events each year really pack a punch in supporting the organization, including:
- The Golden Gala – children and families that Laney’s Legacy has helped come together for a night of fun, food and raffles. Think circus-themed with fire throwers and aerialists and raffles including an all-inclusive cruise vacation!
- Golf Fore Hope – a 4-person scramble with a 50/50 cash prize raffle and a helicopter ball drop.
- Fashionista 5K – An event in true Laney girly girl style. Run or walk in memory or in honor of all the brave fighters, and don’t forget to don a colorful tutu.
- Radiothon – Y102 hosts an annual radiothon raising funds benefitting children with pediatric cancer. The mission began with Laney but it’s not just about her; it’s for all the children and families facing the same situation. Jenell says, “People being able to see the kids that they actually directly impact is really what helps our mission.”
LEARN MORE
In Memory. The frog sculpture sitting in Delaney Circle, West Reading, was painted by Laney’s dad and boasts everything she loved, from animal print to sparkles.
Expanding Assistance. While help is focused mainly on Berks County children, aid also goes out to children and families in need in the Tri-State region.
