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Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation

Learn about this cause: What are the reviews? Is it Legit? Do I like the mission? What is the CEO's salary?

EIN: 363874655 ✦ Chicago, IL ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation?

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is a national nonprofit organization based in Chicago, Illinois. Their primary mission is to eradicate pediatric cancer and offer hope and support to those impacted by it. They accomplish this through their outreach program, Bear Hugs, which provides personalized experiences to children diagnosed with cancer, aged 0-19, as well as their families. These experiences aim to uplift the children during their challenging treatment journeys. The foundation extends its support to children undergoing treatment at 16 hospitals, both in Illinois and out of state. In addition to Bear Hugs, Bear Necessities offers family support for financial burdens and essential needs. They also provide a counseling program in partnership with Samaracare Counseling, offering up to 12 free therapy sessions to eligible families. The counseling program is available to pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and their immediate family members. The foundation's work acknowledges the impact of pediatric cancer on the entire family, and they strive to offer comprehensive support during this challenging time. The organization employs a team of 7 dedicated individuals to fulfill its mission.


Official website here: www.bearnecessities.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating: 95% - Four-Star out of Four Star Rating

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation has received a commendable Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, indicating a high level of transparency and accountability in its operations. The organization excels particularly in Impact & Measurement and Leadership & Adaptability, scoring a perfect 100 in these categories. Their commitment to maintaining an independent board and robust financial oversight further reflects their dedication to ethical management practices.

User feedback highlights the profound impact Bear Necessities has on families affected by pediatric cancer, with numerous reviews praising their dedication and personal touch. Many clients express gratitude for the organization's efforts to grant wishes and provide emotional support, portraying Bear Necessities as a compassionate ally during incredibly challenging times. Reviews from volunteers also emphasize the sense of community and the meaningful connections formed through their involvement with the foundation.

While the Program Expense Ratio of 59.23% indicates that there is room for improvement in how funds are allocated towards direct programs, the organization’s overall structure, as evidenced by its high scores in various operational categories, suggests a strong foundation for continued growth and effectiveness. Overall, Bear Necessities is highly regarded for its mission-driven approach and the tangible support it provides to families navigating the hardships of pediatric cancer.


This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator and Great Nonprofits.

What do the Facebook reviews say about Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation?

98% of 71 reviewers on Facebook recommend Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Here is a summary of their reviews:

Many supporters express deep gratitude towards the foundation, highlighting the positive impact it has had on their children. One parent specifically mentioned how the organization helped create one of the happiest days for their son, showcasing its effectiveness in bringing joy and support to families during challenging times.

Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with users appreciating the foundation's commitment to making a difference in the lives of pediatric cancer patients. The organization seems to fulfill its promises, providing significant emotional support and memorable experiences for children and their families.


This AI summary has been generated from reviews found on Facebook.

Is Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation legitimate?

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.


Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:

Executive Compensation: $460,911
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $85,246

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.bearnecessities.org

What is the mission statement of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation?

The Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is dedicated to eliminating pediatric cancer and providing hope and support to those affected by it. As a national organization, its mission is to offer a customized experience, known as Bear Hugs, to children diagnosed with cancer, aged 0-19, and their immediate families. These Bear Hugs aim to bring joy and support during challenging times. Besides providing financial assistance and essential needs, the foundation also offers a counseling program through its partnership with Samaracare Counseling. This program allows pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and their families to receive up to 12 counseling sessions with a licensed clinical therapist, free of charge. Recognizing that pediatric cancer affects the entire family, this comprehensive support system aims to alleviate some of the emotional and financial burdens they face.


Official website here: www.bearnecessities.org

Who is the CEO of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation?

Katharine Tillotson is the President/Founder of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. The CEO's salary of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is $62,349 and their total compensation is $64,018.


Official website here: www.bearnecessities.org

What is the revenue of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation?

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation's revenue in 2022 was $1,700,490.


Official website here: www.bearnecessities.org

Who are the executives of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation during 2022 was $78,022. There are 7 employees and 50 volunteers at Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation.


Here are 21 key members and their salaries (Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation's CEO's salary is $62,349 and their total compensation is $64,018):


Kathleen Casey (President/Founder)
  • Compensation: $125,184
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $9,022
Susan Mura (Director Of Finance)
  • Compensation: $91,756
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Courtney Krupa (Vice President)
  • Compensation: $77,672
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $3,853
Katharine Tillotson (Ceo)
  • Compensation: $62,349
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $1,669
Claire Jolcover (Co-Chair)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Joy Larisey (Co-Chair)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
James Herbison (Vice Chairperson)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Paula Hamric (Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Barbara Hartman (Secretary)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Chris Armstrong (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Andrea Caputo (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Dennis Culloton (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jennifer Goodwin (President, Young Professional Board)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Richard Gray (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Susan Hitch (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jon Jelinek (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Pamela Mikulec (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Hillary Fash (Director - Term)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Anthony Marino (Director - Term)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tim Mauery (Director - Term)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
David Ventura (Director - Term)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0


Official website here: www.bearnecessities.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation?

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.bearnecessities.org

Learn more at the official website: www.bearnecessities.org

Mission Statement of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation

The Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation is a national organization committed to an ambitious mission: eliminating pediatric cancer and providing hope and support to those affected by it. This foundation recognizes that pediatric cancer not only affects the child diagnosed but also has a profound impact on their immediate family.

To achieve its mission, the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation implements the Bear Hugs program. This program extends its reach to cancer patients aged 0-19, along with their families, who are grappling with the challenges that often accompany a pediatric cancer diagnosis and treatment. The foundation's outreach extends beyond Illinois, providing support to children undergoing treatment at 12 hospitals within the state as well as 4 hospitals outside of Illinois.

The Bear Hugs program offers a customized experience designed to bring joy and positivity into the life of a child facing cancer. Beyond this, the program also provides financial support and essential needs for the immediate family of the cancer patient. Furthermore, anyone who has received a Bear Hug within the past eight years is eligible for the foundation's counseling program. This program, in partnership with Samaracare Counseling, offers up to 12 free counseling sessions with a licensed clinical therapist to help pediatric cancer patients, survivors, or their immediate family members cope with the emotional toll of the disease.

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Impact




October, 2024

Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation significantly impacts the lives of children battling cancer and their families. Through its Bear Hugs program, it provides tailored support to cancer patients aged 0-19, delivering customized experiences that bring joy and comfort during challenging times. The program serves not only those in Illinois but also extends to families across state lines, supporting patients undergoing treatment at 12 hospitals in Illinois and 4 out of state.

This initiative addresses the numerous challenges that arise from a pediatric cancer diagnosis, including the emotional and financial burdens that families face. Immediate family support is offered to alleviate financial pressures and meet essential needs, ensuring that families can focus on their child's health and well-being.

Moreover, the foundation recognizes the holistic toll that pediatric cancer takes on families. Those referred within the last eight years have access to a counseling program in partnership with Samaracare Counseling, allowing for up to 12 therapy sessions at no cost. This service is available to pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and their immediate family members, underscoring a commitment to mental health and emotional support during a critical period.

Through these initiatives, Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation not only champions medical research aimed at eliminating pediatric cancer but also cultivates hope and resilience among those affected by this profound challenge.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.


Financials

This financial information is from Propublica.

Revenue
$1,700,490 (2022)
Expenses
$1,491,073 (2022)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2022.

  • Investment Income: $22,252
  • Gross Receipts: $2,170,337

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $2,315,118
  • Total Liabilities: $407,996
  • Net Assets: $1,907,122

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Organization Details

Founding Year

1993

Principal Officer

Katharine Tillotson

Main Address

55 WEST WACKER DRIVE 1100, CHICAGO, IL, 60601

NTEE Category

Code: H30J - Medical research

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