Local Voices: iHeartMedia
The Children's Cancer Association's JoyRX programs are helping kids smile during a difficult and scary time, and they can use your help. If you have chickens, ducks, or geese there are steps you should take this time of year to protect them from bird flu. Gambling is on the rise among college students and the Oregon Health Authority has tips for parents. It's been five years since the Labor Day wildfires and families continue to rebuild.
38th Annual Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party
Making philanthropic touchdowns for close to 40 years, renowned sports agent and philanthropist Leigh Steinberg hosted his 38th annual Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party on Feb. 8, bringing together sports, science and philanthropy under one roof at the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
The day began with the 12th Annual Brain Health Summit and Health Innovation Panel, followed by the debut of “Music & the Mind” hosted by Big Freedia, a program that connects music’s healing power to brain health. A limited-edition vinyl by Myndstream, which had tracks curated and created to have a positive effect on the brain, was sold on-site to benefit the National Urban League, the event’s community partner.
Advocates say Knight's record-breaking donation to cancer research could be life-changing
PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — There’s good news for those who have loved ones with cancer. Billionaire CEO Phil Knight and his wife Penny are donating $2 billion to Oregon Health & Science University's Knight Cancer Institute.
It's the largest donation ever made to an educational institution. Researchers and advocates on the ground say this money could be life-changing.
“The buzz is everywhere. The excitement is everywhere. And I think everyone is just so excited,” said Kelsey Richards, the senior director of human resources of the Children’s Cancer Association. “We see the impact of kiddos that are missing out on kindergarten first day, their first birthday parties. We see all of those kind[s] of sad moments. So any opportunity to bring joy, which is funding, which is research, which is support, it's just amazing for us to see.”
Breakside Brewery Launches “Beers That Benefit:” A New Series to Support Great Nonprofit Organizations across the Pacific Northwest
First Collaboration will benefit Children’s Cancer Association and its free
JoyRx Music, Mentorship and Nature Programs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- Portland, Ore. – [June 2, 2025] – Children’s Cancer Association, founded in 1995, is proud to be the beneficiary of a meaningful new partnership with Portland’s acclaimed Breakside Brewery, as they launch a limited-edition: “Beers That Benefit” Breakside + Children’s Cancer Association West Coast IPA. This special release kicks off Breakside’s new charitable beer series created to support nonprofit organizations across the Pacific Northwest.
The limited-edition beer will be released on June 3, 2025, and will be available in draft and 16 oz. cans through September, which is Childhood Cancer Awareness month.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit Children’s Cancer Association and its JoyRx programs — JoyRx Music, JoyRx Mentorship, and JoyRx Nature — which deliver joy to kids and teens facing cancer and other serious illnesses. These free-of-charge programs provide emotional healing and support through the power of music, trusted mentorship, and the restorative gifts of nature.
This collaboration is especially meaningful thanks to the connection between the two organizations: Scott Lawrence, founder of Breakside Brewery, also serves on the Board of Directors of Children’s Cancer Association. His dual role makes this initiative a true passion project.
“Breakside’s passion for community and craft is a perfect pairing with our mission,” said Jack Pipkin, CEO of Children’s Cancer Association. “We’re grateful to be the inaugural recipients of this generous program, and for their partnership in helping bring moments of joy and strength to the children and families we serve.”
The Beers That Benefit series reflects Breakside’s vision of brewing beer with purpose: “The concept is simple: we’ll make a great beer, and we’ll use it to support an even better cause,” says Scott Lawrence. “What better way to use the Breakside platform than to highlight and support folks doing great work in our community? This year marks 30 years of free JoyRx programs for our community, and this is one way we can share our support.”
So this summer, whether you’re raising a pint at your favorite pub or grabbing a can to-go, join us in toasting to good beer and a great cause.
About the beer: Breakside + Children’s Cancer Association WC IPA
The beer is a West Coast IPA featuring selected lots of Mosaic, New Zealand-Cascade, Nelson Sauvin, and HBC 1019. It marries notes of overripe tropical fruit with some classic citrus, stone fruit, and a little dank edge.
Find “Beers That Benefit”
The beer will be available throughout Breakside's distribution footprint and all Breakside locations now through September 2025.
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For media inquiries or more information about Breakside Brewery, please contact:
E.K. MacColl, ek@breakside.com, or call 503-869-7775.
For media inquiries or more information about Children’s Cancer Association or JoyRx programs, please contact:
Andrea Tichy, ATichy@JoyRx.org, or call 503-200-5102.
A Mission Built on Joy | About JoyRx
Children’s Cancer Association was founded in 1995 by the Ellis family after their five-year-old daughter, Alexandra, died of cancer — with the goal to create something extraordinary: an organization with a new vision for what pediatric cancer support services might look like.
Each year, our free JoyRx Music®, JoyRx Mentorship®, and JoyRx Nature® programs are shared with approximately 40,000 seriously ill children, teens — and their families — across the nation.
Our trauma-informed programs are based on research and best practices, aligned with Child Life Specialist goals, and are informed by family feedback. We work closely with care teams to provide engaging enrichment activities that help transform the pediatric experience. Simply put: joy makes sick kids feel better.
About Breakside Brewery
Breakside Brewery opened in 2010 in Northeast Portland as a restaurant and pub brewery and has grown to be a highly regarded regional brewery producing 30,000 barrels annually. The brewery is known for its broad portfolio of award-winning, innovative beers. In 2013, Breakside expanded operations to Milwaukie, OR, with a production facility and taproom capable of producing 40,000 barrels of beer per year. Today, Breakside operates seven locations in the Portland/Vancouver area as well as a taproom on the Oregon Coast in Astoria, Oregon. In 2019, Breakside became one of only a handful of employee-owned breweries in the country.
Amos Lee to Headline Children’s Cancer Association’s 30th Anniversary Gala
Live From the Heart benefit concert supports free JoyRx programs
for hospitalized children impacted by serious illness
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- Portland, Ore. – [April 24, 2025] – Children’s Cancer Association, founded in 1995, is grateful to announce that Amos Lee will take the stage as the headliner for the company’s Live from the Heart benefit concert—an evening of music and impact to celebrate the company’s 30th anniversary—on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Portland Art Museum in Portland, Oregon. All proceeds from the event directly benefit the organization’s JoyRx Music, Mentorship and Nature programs, to create moments of connection, empowerment, and emotional well-being for children facing serious and terminal illnesses across the Pacific Northwest and the nation.
Amos Lee is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter whose unique blend of folk, soul, and Americana has inspired audiences around the world. With a career spanning nearly two decades, his heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice have earned him chart-topping albums, collaborations with music legends like Norah Jones and Bob Dylan, and a devoted fan base. A longtime supporter of the organization, he has previously performed for children in hospitals through JoyRx Music. His return for Live from the Heart underscores his genuine connection to the mission and the healing power of music.
“Being able to honor 30 years of JoyRx Music with Amos is truly an honor,” says Jack Pipkin, CEO of Children’s Cancer Association. “His music embodies the depth and heart that we strive to bring to every child we serve. As we gather with the community leaders who have made our organization what it is today, it will be a true celebration of music’s ability to uplift and connect us all.”
The Live From the Heart gala will be filled with inspiration from JoyRx-served families and program elements that underscore the impact of the non-profit, which offers free pediatric enrichment services at the bedsides of seriously ill children and teens. Guests will enjoy an evening of cocktails, dinner, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting JoyRx programs, in addition to honoring the thirtieth anniversary of the company’s founding.
Sponsorships and donation opportunities in support of Children’s Cancer Association’s 30th Anniversary gala are available now. Please visit the event website here.
For 30 years, JoyRx Music® has drawn on the universal power of music to energize and lift spirits. This flagship program helps seriously ill children find joy during stressful and painful experiences related to extended hospitalizations and treatments for life-threatening illnesses. Highly trained JoyRx Music Specialists engage children of all ages and diagnoses, empowering them to choose the musical experience that best fits their current emotional state or desired level of engagement. Offering live, digital and on demand services, JoyRx Music is now in more than 20 states and 50 pediatric sites across the nation, with regional hubs in Austin, Texas; New York, New York, and the company’s headquarters in Portland, Oregon.
The JoyRx Mentorship® program, an award-winning initiative by the Children’s Cancer Association, offers compassionate companionship to seriously ill children and their families. With carefully matched, trained adult volunteers, the program fosters enduring friendships that provide emotional support and joyful distraction during challenging hospital stays. Mentors bring personalized activities and a comforting presence, creating moments of connection that help children feel like kids again. Since its inception in 1999, JoyRx Mentorship has facilitated over 1,600 meaningful matches, exclusively serving families in Portland, Oregon.
The JoyRx Nature® program, offered by the Children’s Cancer Association, provides a healing retreat for children facing serious illnesses and their families.At the heart of this initiative is the Alexandra Ellis Caring Cabin, nestled within 24 acres of serene woods and a tranquil lake along the Oregon Coast.This peaceful haven allows families to relax, explore, and create lasting memories together—free of charge.Available to children aged 3–19 in Oregon and Southwest Washington with a cancer diagnosis or terminal prognosis, the JoyRx Nature program offers a restorative escape from hospital routines, fostering emotional well-being through the therapeutic power of nature.
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Live From the Heart benefit concert, in honor of 30 Years of JoyRx
Event Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Location: Portland Art Museum, 1219 SW Park Avenue, Portland, Oregon
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
For media inquiries about Children’s Cancer Association or the organization’s free JoyRx programs, please contact Andrea Tichy, Senior Director of Brand Marketing and Communications by emailing atichy@joyrx.org.
Photos and information about Amos Lee can be found here.
A Mission Built on Joy | About JoyRx
Children’s Cancer Association was founded in 1995 by the Ellis family after their five- year-old daughter, Alexandra, died of cancer — with the goal to create something extraordinary: an organization with a new vision for what pediatric cancer support services might look like.
Each year, our free JoyRx Music®, JoyRx Mentorship®, and JoyRx Nature® programs are shared with approximately 40,000 seriously ill children, teens — and their families — across the nation.
Our trauma-informed programs are based on research and best practices, aligned with Child Life Specialist goals, and are informed by family feedback. We work closely with care teams to provide engaging enrichment activities that help transform the pediatric experience. Simply put: joy makes sick kids feel better.
Extraordinary Volunteerism: Portland-based firm Design with Refinement Completes Refresh of Alexandra Ellis Caring Cabin Meditation Pavilion
Collaboration with Visual Artist Meghan Catherine Dragon
Brings New Life to Peaceful Retreat for Families with JoyRx Nature
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- Pacific City, OR – [April 2, 2025] – April is National Volunteer month, and Children’s Cancer Association is honored to recognize all of the organization’s volunteers, and announce the completion of a transformative project at the JoyRx Nature Alexandra Ellis Caring Cabin’s meditation pavilion—made possible through the vision and generous volunteerism of Refinement Wagner, and her Portland-based interior design firm Design With Refinement.
Launched in 2006, the Children’s Cancer Association’s JoyRx Nature program creates an essential connection to the natural world and provides children in treatment, and their extended families, with a no-cost, five-day retreat at the Alexandra Ellis Caring Cabin. Designed with the needs of seriously ill children and their families in mind, this unique property is nestled in 24 acres of surrounding woods at the Oregon Coast. It offers a serene lake and a calming environment, including a Meditation Pavilion, for families to find solace, process emotions, and create memories together.
Refinement Wager, founder of Design With Refinement, has shared her leadership with the organization by serving as a member of the Children’s Cancer Association’s Northwest Leadership Council since 2022. When she learned of the opportunity for an interior refresh of the meditation pavilion, she generously offered her pro bono interior design services. With Refinement’s volunteerism and a matching grant from the Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund for the meditation pavilion, JoyRx was able to move forward with a much-needed refresh of the space.
“This was a passion project – being able to help enhance an already amazing space was a true honor. We really wanted to capture the healing connection to nature – from the forest to the lake to the coast, in our design,” says Refinement Wagner. “Through a beautiful mural, furnishings and décor we were able to capture the essence of tranquility for those that need it most.” Refinement and JoyRx identified and hired visual artist Meghan Catherine Dragon for this unique project, through the Regional Arts & Culture Council.
“Volunteers and art are the heart and soul of our organization,” says Jack Pipkin, Chief Executive Officer at JoyRx. “We are so grateful for essential partners like Refinement, who commit their resources, care, and expertise to help us bring free JoyRx programs to children and families facing serious and terminal illness. And, Meghan’s artistry in creating nature-inspired work to connect is really a perfect fit for what we hope to share with families that use the meditation pavilion.”
The recent transformation of its mediation pavilion enhances the cabin’s welcoming atmosphere, creating a more accessible, serene, and beautiful space designed to foster respite, connection, and joy. The renewed space is already making a profound impact on families, providing a refreshing escape from medical routines and helping young patients find comfort and resilience through nature.
“The caring cabin was such a safe, special get away,” explains Jace’s Mom, a JoyRx-served parent. “The house was unbelievable, and I cannot express the amount of joy it brought Jace and his sister. Thanks for gifting us a memorable time together that we will hold in our hearts forever. It was so special to have an epic stress-free trip to make fun memories as a family.”
Children’s Cancer Association’s 2024 Community Investment Report noted that 261 volunteers had contributed approximately 4,985 hours of their time to the organization, creating an incredible impact and building capacity for the organization. Volunteer opportunities include JoyRx Mentorship, JoyRx Music opportunities, event and office support, as well as community and governance leadership, in addition to unique opportunities for specific areas of expertise.
Since its opening in 2006, the Alexandra Ellis Caring Cabin has hosted more than 650 seriously ill children, along with their extended family and friends. Learn more about JoyRx Nature, Music, and Mentorship programs.
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For photos of this project, please visit: this gallery.
Additional photos about JoyRx and its programs can be found here.
For media inquires or more information about Design With Refinement, please contact: Refinement Wagner, refinement@designwithrefinement.com, or call (503) 308-8606.
For media inquiries or more information about JoyRx, please contact: Andrea Tichy, atichy@joyrx.org, or call
(503) 200-5102.
A Mission Built on Joy | About JoyRx
Children’s Cancer Association was founded in 1995 by the Ellis family after their five- year-old daughter, Alexandra, died of cancer — with the goal to create something extraordinary: an organization with a new vision for what pediatric cancer support services might look like.
Each year, our free JoyRx Music®, JoyRx Mentorship®, and JoyRx Nature® programs are shared with approximately 40,000 seriously ill children, teens — and their families — across the nation.
Our trauma-informed programs are based on research and best practices, aligned with Child Life Specialist goals, and are informed by family feedback. We work closely with care teams to provide engaging enrichment activities that help transform the pediatric experience. Simply put: joy makes sick kids feel better.
About Design With Refinement
Friends Refinement Wagner and Lynn Conti have been working together since 2007 and bonded over their love of design, nature, and beautiful spaces. Over the years, they have worked on multiple projects, including commercial, residential, and office spaces. Refinement is active with the Interior Design Society Portland Chapter and the JoyRx | Children's Cancer Association PNW Leadership Board in Portland, Oregon. www.designwithrefinement.com
About Meghan Catherine Dragon
Meghan Dragon is a Las Vegas-based artist dedicated to exploring the delicate beauty of nature through drawing, painting, and collage. With eight years of experience in art education and a deep passion for capturing the intricate details of flora and fauna from native habitats, her work reflects the rich complexity of the natural world.
Her subjects are often shaped by their surroundings, inviting viewers to look beyond the surface and discover deeper connections to nature. Through her art, she aims to inspire conservation and a renewed appreciation for the outdoors. You can learn more at her website: https://www.ultreiaart.com/
About Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund
The Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund has been investing in people and helping improve communities for over 50 years. Founded in 1970, our private, grant-making foundation is committed to assisting organizations in achieving sustainability of programs and services through increasing their fundraising capacity. We are proud of our long history of supporting the good works of Oregonians with grants to community-based, preselected Oregon not-for-profit organizations with whom we have established relationships.
The Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund has been a proud partner of JoyRx since 2001, funding a variety of programs, including previous support of JoyRx Nature.
The War and Treaty to Headline JoyRx’s Fifth Annual Live From the Heart Benefit Concert
It all begins with an idea.
Sponsored by Wells Fargo, at Austin’s Brazos Hall
Event supports hospitalized children impacted by serious illness
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- Austin, TX – [February 10, 2025] – JoyRx is thrilled to announce that powerhouse duo The War and Treaty will take the stage as the headliners for the fifth annual Live from the Heart benefit concert—an evening of music and impact—on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Brazos Hall in Austin, TX. This annual benefit concert supports JoyRx’s mission to create moments of connection, empowerment, and emotional well-being for children facing serious and terminal illnesses.
Founded in 2014 by the husband-and-wife duo Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, The War And Treaty has emerged as one of the most electrifying new acts in American music. They were nominated for the Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards, and have also been nominated for Duo of the Year at the CMA Awards two years in a row and for Vocal Duo of the Year at the ACM Awards. They have won two Americana Music Awards (both for Duo/Group of the Year) and have received additional nominations and recognition from CMT Music Awards, Folk Alliance International, People’s Choice Country Awards, as well as from the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the Grand Ole Opry. Their latest album, Plus One, is set to be released February 14, 2025.
JoyRx's Live From the Heart gala will be filled with inspiration from JoyRx-served families and program elements that underscore the impact of the non-profit, which offers free pediatric enrichment services at the bedsides of seriously ill children and teens. All proceeds with benefit JoyRx. Guests will enjoy an evening of cocktails, dinner, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting JoyRx’s mission.
“The War and Treaty’s music embodies the resilience and hope that we strive to bring to every child we serve,” says Lindsey Sanders, Executive Director, South for JoyRx. “We are inspired by their artistry, and inspired that we get to celebrate their music while gathering the our Austin community in support of JoyRx. This night will be a true celebration of music’s ability to uplift and connect us all.”
Wells Fargo is the presenting sponsor of the 2025 Live From the Heart benefit concert. Learn more about donation and sponsorship opportunities by visiting the event website here.
For 30 years, JoyRx Music has drawn on the universal power of music to energize and lift spirits. Our flagship program helps seriously ill children find Joy during stressful and painful experiences related to extended hospitalizations and treatments for life-threatening illnesses. Our highly trained JoyRx musicians engage children of all ages and diagnoses in our 50 hospitals nationwide, allowing them to choose the musical experience that best fits their current emotional place and desired mood.
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Live From the Heart event details:
Event Date: April 17, 2025
Location: Brazos Hall, 204 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
More information about JoyRx in Austin can be found here.
For media inquiries about JoyRx, please contact Andrea Tichy, Senior Director of Brand Marketing and Communications for JoyRx | Children’s Cancer Association by emailing atichy@joyrx.org.
Photos and information about The War and Treaty are available here.
JoyRx to Receive 2025 Brain Health Humanitarian Award
It all begins with an idea.
Presented by Mr. Leigh Steinberg and Dr. Nicole F. Roberts during the 38th Annual Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party in New Orleans, in conjunction with Super Bowl LIX
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- Portland, OR – [February 4, 2025] – JoyRx | Children’s Cancer Association is honored to be selected as the recipient of the Brain Health Humanitarian Award for 2025. The award will be presented by Mr. Leigh Steinberg and Dr. Nicole Roberts during the 38th Annual Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals and organizations who have demonstrated extraordinary contributions, leadership, and impact in the fields of mental health, wellness, and neuroscience as they touch various communities in need.
“The Brain Health Humanitarian Award, established in 2016, celebrates those who exemplify excellence in brain health and inspire others through their achievements and philanthropy,” says Dr. Nicole F. Roberts, President of Health & Human Rights Strategies. “Among many outstanding individuals, JoyRx’s remarkable accomplishments stand out. We look forward to honoring their incredible work!”
In addition to JoyRx, the 2025 Humanitarian Award honorees will include two-time New Orleans Mayor and President of the National Urban League Marc H. Morial; Owner of the New Orleans Saints and Governor of the New Orleans Pelicans Gayle Benson; President of the Las Vegas Raiders Sandra Douglass Morgan; Coach of the Denver Broncos Sean Payton; Baltimore Ravens Cornerback Nate Wiggins; retired NFL Quarterback Drew Brees; neurofeedback pioneers Dr. Siegfried Othmer and Susan F. Othmer, and the new Legacy Award recipient, Hall of Fame Quarterback Brett Favre.
“This is an incredible moment for our organization,” says Jack Pipkin, CEO of JoyRx, who will accept the award. “What began as an innovative response to the emotional needs of seriously ill children thirty years ago has turned into JoyRx programs in twenty states and more than fifty pediatric care locations. We know that kids need more than medicine to heal. They need joy. We’re honored to provide that during their health journey, and honored to be recognized with this award.”
Since its founding in 1995, Children’s Cancer Association has delivered JoyRx programs that center emotional well-being as a critical element of pediatric support services. Provided free of charge to all families and healthcare partners, JoyRx Music, Mentorship, and Nature programs improve health outcomes by focusing on the emotional and mental health of seriously ill children when they need more than medicine to heal. The company is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, with a regional office in Austin, Texas, live services in New York City, and a team of highly trained staff members across the country — providing JoyRx programs in twenty states and more than fifty pediatric care centers.
Last fiscal year, JoyRx programs served nearly 40,000 seriously ill children and teens nationally, a thirty-three percent increase year-over-year, setting a new organization record. The organization is committed to expanding services to reach diverse populations of seriously ill children, helping to champion the importance of emotional well-being in healthcare settings.
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Information about the Steinberg Denicola Humanitarian Awards can be found here.
For media inquiries about JoyRx, please contact Andrea Tichy, Senior Director of Brand Marketing and Communications for JoyRx | Children’s Cancer Association by emailing atichy@joyrx.org
For media inquiries about the Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl party, please contact: Tad Hamilton, President of Mosaic PR by emailing tad@mosaicpr.com.
A Mission Built on Joy | About JoyRx
Children’s Cancer Association was founded in 1995 by the Ellis family after their five- year-old daughter, Alexandra, died of cancer — with the goal to create something extraordinary: an organization with a new vision for what pediatric cancer support services might look like.
Each year, our free JoyRx Music®, JoyRx Mentorship®, and JoyRx Nature® programs are shared with approximately 40,000 seriously ill children, teens — and their families — across the nation.
Our trauma-informed programs are based on research and best practices, aligned with Child Life Specialist goals, and are informed by family feedback. We work closely with care teams to provide engaging enrichment activities that help transform the pediatric experience. Simply put: joy makes sick kids feel better.
JoyRx Music Launches Live Services in New York City: Program Brings Music to Pediatric Hospital Bedsides
It all begins with an idea.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Brooklyn, N.Y. (Jan. 7, 2025)— JoyRx | Children’s Cancer Association is honored to announce the expansion of services in New York City with the launch of live, bedside music programs for children at The Brooklyn Hospital Center on October 30, 2024, and the Children’s Hospital at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University on November 20, 2024. JoyRx Music is a free program that brings trained JoyRx Music Specialists into pediatric settings, providing in-person music activities to support psychosocial well-being, while sharing moments of joy and connection with seriously ill children and their families.
Though Children’s Cancer Association has offered its flagship JoyRx Music program since its founding in 1995, the launch of services in New York City represents a milestone moment for the Portland, Oregon-based organization. “For thirty years, we’ve seen what happens when you harness the universal power of music to help children facing serious illnesses and going through treatment,” says Jack Pipkin, JoyRx CEO. “We’re grateful to the teams at The Brooklyn Hospital Center and SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University for investing in the healing power of music with us and bringing JoyRx into the hospital rooms of New York City kids who need joy.”
Typical JoyRx Music interactions include personalized, curated experiences that best suit pediatric patients’ current emotional states, desired moods, and engagement levels. Children can request a song, sing along, participate in music lessons, or borrow an instrument to play along. They might dance and sing or may simply lean back, listen, and rest.
"Music influences clinical and medical settings, especially for children facing extended hospital stays or challenging treatments,” explains a December article regarding the launch from the Office of the President at SUNY Downstate. “It reduces stress, alleviates pain, boosts mood, and improves overall well-being. JoyRx Music harnesses this potential through its innovative, patient-focused approach. Together, we are creating moments of joy that leave a lasting impact on children and their families.”
On the first day of the program launch, Gabby, a JoyRx Music Specialist, visited rooms in the inpatient and PICU units at The Brooklyn Hospital Center, playing songs for children who requested musical moments. She ended the day playing music for infants in the NICU, and in future weeks will continue visiting these units in addition to the Children’s Health Center. At SUNY Downstate, JoyRx served children in the inpatient and PICU units, with plans to expand to the Dialysis Clinic in future sessions.
"TBHC is so excited and honored to be one of the two NYC pilot locations,” says Taylor Brower, Child Life Specialist, Pediatrics, at The Brooklyn Hospital Center. “After being a digital live partner for the past year, I knew our patients and families would love having JoyRx in person. JoyRx has been a fantastic resource for our small child life program and Gabby truly brings the joyful and healing power of music with her when she visits patients in our pediatric unit, PICU, NICU and Children’s Health Center."
Both The Brooklyn Hospital Center, and SUNY Downstate Health Services University have aimed to offer outstanding health services, education, and research for decades, to impact health and wellness in the diverse communities they serve. Given JoyRx’s goal to meet the emotional needs of every seriously ill child in the United States, these are strong partnerships: with all three working together, it sets the stage for expanded services in NYC.
“Both launches were great!” said JoyRx Music Specialist Gabby of the expansion into Brooklyn. “I got to see so many kids, and the hospital staff were very welcoming and excited for the program. As a music specialist, opportunities like this remind me of the power of connection, laughter, and music.”
Since 1995, JoyRx has delivered joy and emotional support to young patients through free-of-charge transformative programs rooted in music, mentorship, and nature. In October, the organization realized a milestone fiftieth healthcare partnership launch (one of eight New York area partners), and has a regional office in Austin, Texas, in addition to its Portland headquarters and presence in New York City.
Last fiscal year, JoyRx programs served nearly 40,000 seriously ill children and teens nationally, a 33 percent increase year-over-year, setting a new organization record. JoyRx is committed to expanding services to reach diverse populations of seriously ill children, helping to champion the importance of emotional well-being in healthcare settings.
This New York expansion of JoyRx Music was made possible, in part, by The Taft Foundation. The Children’s Cancer Association intends to leverage findings from these initial two Brooklyn sites to better adjust, expand, and facilitate the continuation of live JoyRx Music services in New York City, and across the nation.
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Photos of JoyRx at The Brooklyn Hospital Center launch can be found here. Additional photos about JoyRx and its programs can be found here. For media inquiries or more information about JoyRx, please contact: press@joyrx.org
A Mission Built on Joy | About JoyRx
Children’s Cancer Association was founded in 1995 by the Ellis family after their five-year-old daughter, Alexandra, died of cancer — with the goal to create something extraordinary: an organization with a new vision for what pediatric cancer support services might look like.
Each year, our free JoyRx Music®, JoyRx Mentorship®, and JoyRx Nature® programs are shared with approximately 40,000 seriously ill children, teens — and their families — across the nation.
Our trauma-informed programs are based on research and best practices, aligned with Child Life Specialist goals, and are informed by family feedback. We work closely with care teams to provide engaging enrichment activities that help transform the pediatric experience.Simply put: joy makes sick kids feel better. Learn more about JoyRx programs.
Children’s Cancer Association Begins a New Chapter: Jack Pipkin named CEO
It all begins with an idea.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- Portland, OR – [November 20, 2024] – The Board of Directors of JoyRx | Children’s Cancer Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Jack Pipkin to Chief Executive Officer, ushering in a new chapter in the leadership of the innovative non-profit, on the eve of its 30th anniversary year in 2025.
Mr. Pipkin most recently served as the organization’s Senior Vice President of Revenue and Development, after joining as Vice President of Development in July 2018, following a national search. He has played a leading role in the company’s initial national expansion, specifically with business development efforts in launching the first regional hub outside of Portland, in Austin, Texas. To date, he has led the advancement team in raising over $30MM in support of Children’s Cancer Association, and its JoyRx Music, Mentorship and Nature programs.
“Jack is exactly the leader we need at this pivotal moment,” says Clare Hamill, founding and current Chair of the Board of Directors, and VP of Innovation Integration at Nike. “He has been instrumental in realizing our vision for national expansion, driving conditions for growth, and exemplifying an unwavering commitment to the children and families we serve. I'm so excited to embark on this next chapter with him at the helm.”
Since 1995, JoyRx has delivered joy and emotional support to young patients through transformative programs rooted in music, mentorship, and nature. Programs are provided free-of-charge to pediatric care facilities, children, and families. In October, the company realized a milestone fiftieth healthcare partnership launch (one of seven New York area partners), and has a regional office in Austin, Texas, in addition to its Portland headquarters.
“This is an exciting time for JoyRx,” says Pipkin, “and I am deeply honored to take on this new leadership role. We will continue to grow and expand sustainably and there is so much to celebrate as we approach our milestone 30th anniversary.”
Last fiscal year, JoyRx programs served nearly 40,000 seriously ill children and teens nationally, a 33% increase year-over-year, setting a new company record. So far this year, the organization is on pace to continue its growth in program delivery by ten percent, increasing total JoyRx interactions to nearly 300k annually.
“Thirty years ago, we set out to revolutionize the pediatric healthcare experience,” says Regina Ellis, founder of the organization. “Today, the need for our specialized JoyRx services for young patients has reached unprecedented levels. Jack’s visionary leadership, unwavering dedication to our mission and values, and deep commitment to our community—team, partners, philanthropic supporters, and volunteers—will enable us to meet this growing demand as we expand our impact nationwide.”
Pipkin began his career in a program delivery role in the human services field. He eventually moved into development and fundraising and then served as Executive Director and Regional Director for Muscular Dystrophy Association, where he oversaw development and in-hospital program teams (up to twenty offices) across the west coast of the United States. He is a father of two, a lover of music and film, and an ardent seeker of outdoor adventures throughout the Pacific Northwest.
With the start of this new chapter, JoyRx | Children’s Cancer Association looks forward to a future guided by Pipkin’s vision and expertise in national expansion, as it celebrates three decades of joyful service and continues the mission of bringing hope and healing to children in need.
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Photos of Jack Pipkin, JoyRx programs and leadership can be found here. For media inquiries or more information about the 30th anniversary in 2025, please contact: press@joyrx.org
A Mission Built on Joy | About JoyRx
Children’s Cancer Association was founded in 1995 by the Ellis family after their five- year-old daughter, Alexandra, died of cancer — with the goal to create something extraordinary: an organization with a new vision for what pediatric cancer support services might look like.
Each year, our free JoyRx Music®, JoyRx Mentorship®, and JoyRx Nature® programs are shared with approximately 40,000 seriously ill children, teens — and their families — across the nation.
Our trauma-informed programs are based on research and best practices, aligned with Child Life Specialist goals, and are informed by family feedback. We work closely with care teams to provide engaging enrichment activities that help transform the pediatric experience. Simply put: joy makes sick kids feel better. Learn more at JOYRX.ORG.