With Joy, With Gratitude: Asking Our Staff Their Whys
This article is part of our 30 on 30 series, commemorating 30 years of Children’s Cancer Association in 2025. This month, we celebrate the amazing individuals of the JoyRx Team. Why?
Rarely is there a simple answer to such a question. And yet, despite the resource and capacity challenges that face the non-profit sector, almost anyone working for a non-profit organization will have an answer to that question — and a personal point of view that serves as a counterweight to burnout and fatigue.
The staff at Children’s Cancer Association stretches across the country, each person different and unique in their own way, yet united by one clear mission: helping sick kids feel like kids again.
Some of our staff pose for a group photo during our annual gala in October 2025.
The inside scoop: this caring and incredible group of people moves mountains, regularly performs magic, believes in joy, and works hard.
In honor of the often behind-the-scenes work our staff accomplishes in service to the families and children we serve, we asked thirty staff members to pause and share their “why.”
Why do they support Children’s Cancer Association? Here’s what they had to say in their own words:
1.
“I choose to work and support Children’s Cancer Association because I truly believe in the mission that joy has the power to heal in ways that medicine alone can’t. Working here allows me to be part of something that feels both meaningful and uplifting — helping create small moments of happiness that can make a big difference.
Hospitals and doctors’ visits can feel incredibly dark and scary at times, and JoyRx brings even the smallest sliver of light and joy to those times. Every day, I get to see that impact of joy in action — and that’s what keeps me inspired and grateful to be part of this organization.”
— Halle Thibodeaux, Senior Development Manager (Austin, Texas)
2.
“For me, I was really excited to join an organization with such an important, down-to-earth mission: Joy. I had been a supporter at events and had heard several families’ stories firsthand. As a mom of young(ish) kids at the time, I felt such empathy for what families go through — and gratitude for my healthy, active kids.
What keeps me here is our amazing staff — we attract good humans to work here! I feel privileged to work alongside such a dedicated and talented group, and even though our work is often hard (exhausting, if I’m being honest), I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”
— Nicole McDonald, Vice President of Finance & Operations (Portland, Oregon)
3.
“My four-year-old mentee has brought me so much joy, and I’m so proud to be part of an organization that seeks to make the world a better place for children and families in times of need. Working with a team that is aligned on this mission is both humbling and inspiring.”
— Kyle Brown, Program Data Analyst (Portland, Oregon)
4.
“In the most stressful, ugliest, and most painful time, Children’s Cancer Association provides comfort, smiles, healing energy, companionship, connection, distraction, fun, music, play, escape, friendship, calm, peace, a friendly face, an open ear, and heart for sick kids… This is why I support and am in awe every day of what we do.”
— Amy Raupp, Senior Executive Assistant to the CEO & Administrative Manager (Portland, Oregon)
5.
“An integral part of my childhood journey was losing my mother to cancer. From experiencing grief to acceptance, I’ve learned the value of knowing what it is that can bring you joy at the moment. I believe that Children’s Cancer Association makes that process just a little bit easier for kids, and a helping hand can go a long way. Cancer has impacted my life, and I would like to make just a small impact on those who are being affected today.”
— Makoto Sakai, Creative Project Coordinator (Portland, Oregon)
6.
“I support Children’s Cancer Association because of a deeply personal connection I formed during college through a mentorship program similar to JoyRx. I was paired with a remarkable young girl named Ensley, and I am proud to say that she not only participated in a similar organization but has also graduated! Watching her journey unfold was profoundly inspiring, and it reaffirmed my commitment to supporting kids like Ensley for as long as I can. Ensley: You continue to be my why.”
— Hannah Esrock, Marketing and Public Relations Manager (New York City, New York)
7.
“Three years ago, I found myself at a crossroads in my career: I wanted to know that, at the end of the day, I was making a positive impact on someone's life. Then I came across a job posting at Children’s Cancer Association. I was already familiar with the organization through community events, but I didn't realize the extent of heart, passion, and dedication this team brings to our JoyRx programs until I started working here.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of shadowing at hospitals, meeting incredible kids, and hearing emotional stories from parents about what JoyRx programs meant to them during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. This is what keeps me coming back to raise the funds needed to make someone smile and give people hope.”
— Anne Robinson, Director of Development, PNW (Portland, Oregon)
8.
“I support Children’s Cancer Association because I believe in the power of music and community to heal, and I believe JoyRx programs give us the ability to share that gift with the people and families who need it most. I'm sincerely grateful to this organization for helping me to use my love of music to make a difference in people's lives, and seeing the joy on the faces of the kids we serve always makes me excited for my next interaction.”
— Dylan Greer, JoyRx Music Specialist (Los Angeles, California)
9.
“Because cancer sucks, and it’s even more cruel that it happens to children. Anything we can do to put a smile on a child’s face during this time is undoubtedly a gift.”
— Eileen Shattuck, Senior Accounting Coordinator (Portland, Oregon)
10.
“I am here because my love for music runs deep, and I know the power that it holds. Being able to share that love and power through JoyRx Music to patients and families in need means more than you could ever know.”
— Monica Salas, JoyRx Music Specialist (Austin, Texas)
11.
“The mission of Children’s Cancer Association resonates deeply with me as a mother. All children deserve to live joyful lives, and it’s a no-brainer to be part of the team helping sick kids still feel like kids through music, laughter, play, and joy.”
— Katie Hovde, Foundations Manager (Portland, Oregon)
12.
“I believe in the power of music and community to help in the healing process.
TMI, but my mother passed away from cancer last year, and I remember the many days singing and playing music to her; it brought her comfort and happiness during her journey. Music is medicine.
I have always loved music, and when I found an opportunity to bring it to children who really need it, I jumped at the chance. I am happy to have found this position. I feel lucky to work here, continuing to provide music for patients in hospitals! It is great to see kids (and parents) enjoy the unique services we provide.”
— Spencer Grubbe, JoyRx Music Specialist (New York City, New York)
13.
“Children’s Cancer Association’s origin story fuels my drive to help others, knowing that a fierce and focused mission that started with a single spark can grow to impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of heroic kids everywhere.”
— Darrell Yuen, Senior Director of Philanthropy (Portland, Oregon)
14.
“I was introduced to Children’s Cancer Association when my daughter was sick. In order to make sense of our experience, I made a commitment that I would try to help other families in their darkest days once she pulled through. Working here has been a way to fulfill that promise. I am here in honor of my daughter and in service to the other beautiful children that cancer or other life-threatening illnesses affect.”
— Lori Piscitello, JoyRx Mentorship Specialist (Portland, Oregon)
15.
“Children’s Cancer Association has such a special mission that I resonated with because of how much music, nature, and connection to others have made hard times in my life more bearable. Being a part of that mission feels like an honor. Every day, I get to see how music can replace heaviness with joy for a few moments and how that can mean so much to these families.”
— Kelsey Kirchenbauer, JoyRx Music Supervisor, Digital Live (Baltimore, Maryland)
16.
“The reason I wanted to work at Children’s Cancer Association was initially the mission — but actually seeing the programs in action is what keeps me motivated. Seeing the beauty of the Caring Cabin, kids dancing and singing along with the Music Specialists, and real friendships being forged between kids and their Mentors inspires me to keep showing up and giving my all.”
— Jillian Ferguson, Senior Development Coordinator (Portland, Oregon)
17.
“When I transitioned out of my teaching career, it was important to me to find a role where I was still making a difference for my community. I strongly believe in the maxim to leave the world a better place than how you found it, and this is one small contribution I can make to the collective good.
‘All children deserve long, happy lives — or at least: short, happy ones.’ The first time I heard that phrase, I burst into tears. I knew I’d found exactly where I wanted to be: part of a movement where every child can feel joy, no matter what cruelty the world shoves their way. I wanted them to have a kinder, more joyful world.”
— Robin Cedar, Senior Communications Associate (Portland, Oregon)
18.
“I believe in the power of our programs and have seen firsthand the difference that they make for kids, families, and our community. I have been at Children’s Cancer Association for my entire career and have been truly honored to grow as a person and professional by being a part of JoyRx programs. I love the variety within my role — I get to work with inspiring patients, families, and volunteers from all backgrounds, an incredible team, and dedicated hospital staff and donors — many of whom have become lifelong friends. More recently, as a cancer survivor myself, I know how critical support programs are for folks facing the scary uncertainty of a serious illness.”
— Kacy Smerke, Director of Programs, PNW (Portland, Oregon)
19.
“I support Children’s Cancer Association because of our mission. Having been in medical school, I have seen both sides of cancer treatment and the treatment of childhood illnesses. The toll it has on the patients and their families is at times insurmountable. The role our organization plays in that is so pivotal because it helps these children remember that they are more than just patients and reminds them of the joy that comes with being human. I think it is so easy to feel like a cog or another number in the healthcare system, or to have people see you as only your diagnosis, and I believe our organization actively combats that belief.”
— Brandon Hocker, Database and Prospect Research Manager (Denver, Colorado)
20.
“I support the Children’s Cancer Association because, as a musician, I’ve seen firsthand the profound healing power of music. To offer even a moment of comfort, connection, or joy to a child or family facing unimaginable challenges is not just meaningful — it’s a true privilege and honor.”
— Chrissy Whitford, JoyRx Music Supervisor, South (Austin, Texas)
21.
“Working for Children’s Cancer Association allows me to share my passion and belief in the power of music! Every day, I get to pick up my guitar and sing with kids and families going through some really difficult times, being a small light of joy. To me, there is nothing more meaningful and beautiful, and I'm proud to say I get to do that work through JoyRx.”
— Gabby Toledo, JoyRx Music Specialist (Randolph, New Jersey)
22.
“Shortly after I accepted a position at Children’s Cancer Association, but before I officially started, I attended a Get Inspired Breakfast event. Honestly, I’d already started second-guessing my decision and was looking for a role that was more exciting. At the time, Children’s Cancer Association’s technology was pretty limited: an outdated file server with a failing hard drive and a few scattered iPads. Still, no reason to pass up a free breakfast.
I don’t remember the keynote speaker’s name, but I remember his story about his family’s experience with our in-hospital music team — and how it made me feel. As I left the event, I overheard someone behind me say, ‘It’s always great to start the day with a good cry.’ That line stuck with me.
A few weeks later, on my first day in the office, it happened to be staff meeting day. Another colleague told us a story about a family from a small fishing village in Alaska. I found myself fighting back tears, thinking, ‘If I can’t get it together, they’re going to fire me. You don’t cry at staff meetings!’ But when I looked around the room, everyone else was wiping away tears, too.
I realized then that I might not change the world through IT alone, but I could support the people who do. I stayed because of what this organization does. Children’s Cancer Association makes a difference, one kid at a time.”
— Joe Williams, Director of IT & Facilities (Portland, Oregon)
23.
“I support because of the opportunity to provide support, joy, a smile, a laugh, a giggle, to these precious kiddos and families during the most difficult of times.”
— Kelsey Richards, Senior Director of Human Resources (Portland, Oregon)
24.
“My first experience with Children’s Cancer Association was being a volunteer musician who played in the lobby and Randall and Doernbecher Children’s Hospitals. As a former music teacher, I was drawn to this opportunity to bring the joy of music to kids and families in unfamiliar, sometimes scary settings. As a volunteer, I saw firsthand how music could bring a smile to a worried face and lift spirits.
That’s what motivated me to keep coming back. Now, I’m on staff as a Music Specialist, playing music at bedside at these hospitals. Daily, I witness the hardship and struggles of families dealing with chronic and life-threatening illnesses — and I’m so grateful to be able to witness the moments of joy that music and mentorship can bring to these kids. I keep coming back every day because I see firsthand the difference JoyRx makes!”
— Jean Czuba, JoyRx Music Specialist (Portland, Oregon)
25.
“As a kid with racing thoughts at bedtime, music was the only thing that could temper them and calm my restless mind to sleep. I knew from an early age that music had special powers. Over the years, I learned that friendship and nature do, too — so when I had the opportunity to shift gears from helping big corporations increase their profits in Chicago to serving an org that uses music, mentorship, and nature to provide respites of joy to families going through the worst of times, it was an easy decision to make.
The mission is what brought me in and gave my career real purpose and meaning, but it’s this incredible team of kind, talented, hard-working people who make Children’s Cancer Association what it is. That’s what keeps me motivated to come back day after day.”
— Brennan Collins, Senior Video Content Creator (Portland, Oregon)
26.
“My current why is seeing the difference our programs make for families during hard times. My very favorite is watching the way a [JoyRx Mentorship] match evolves from a shy first visit, to mentees asking to go to the hospital so they can see their mentor! That's what keeps me here.”
— Salma Ruiz, JoyRx Mentorship Specialist (Portland, Oregon)
27.
“I care deeply about ensuring that all youth have access to high-quality programs that help them thrive. I experienced a traumatic eye injury at the age of 12 and spent a lot of my teenage years in and out of the hospital and doctor appointments. I missed key high school moments while recovering from various surgeries.
For me, music was a powerful part of my recovery process. I played music all the time to feel less alone, and so the mission of Children’s Cancer Association resonates deeply with me. Being a part of bringing music to kids all over the country feels like sharing with them a powerful secret to unlock joy during challenging times.”
— Maura Boyce, Vice President of Programs (Portland, Oregon)
28.
“I work for Children’s Cancer Association because I believe deeply in the transformative power of music and its ability to bring comfort, connection, and joy. It’s such a gift to share my passion for music with kids across the country and to see the impact firsthand. I feel grateful to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team, and I’m proud to contribute to the growing field of arts in health where JoyRx is truly making a meaningful impact.”
— Elke Downer, JoyRx Music Senior Manager (Portland, Oregon)
29.
“I support Children’s Cancer Association because I believe every child — no matter their circumstances — deserves to be heard, to be understood, to feel joy, and to simply be a kid.
As a mom of two young children, the act of playing, listening to a favorite song, and stepping outside into the fresh air are instrumental in shifting the moment and mood.
As an employee, I am proud to support an organization that strives to improve pediatric health care experiences. I feel privileged to work alongside compassionate, driven colleagues who are making meaningful differences in the lives of children facing incredibly tough challenges.”
— Angela Long, Senior Accounting Manager (Seaside, Oregon)
30.
“Like many, I was first drawn to Children’s Cancer Association years ago because of the simple, yet profound belief that drives our mission: all children deserve joy, even when facing cancer and other serious illnesses.
Today, I have a much greater perspective on how this belief — and our JoyRx programs that support it — can change lives. Ripples of joy that begin in hospital rooms become waves of connection and community, uniting our dedicated staff, volunteers, and supporters across the country.
I feel privileged to serve alongside that community and to continue bringing more moments of joy, big and small, to children and their families each year.”
— Jack Pipkin, Chief Executive Officer (Portland, Oregon)
Regardless of the “why,” each person working at Children’s Cancer Association is dedicated to creating a better healthcare experience for children and families. Each employee contributes to the mission in their own way, creating a cohesive organization that’s committed to helping children feel better through joy.
We are so grateful for our team.