❝Seeing the new Wonder Tower, I envisioned how Connor’s Heroes can elevate and support the childhood cancer community in the new space. As a parent of a childhood cancer hero, I was amazed at how much VCU/CHoR has evolved over the last 10 years when my daughter was in treatment. Strategic planning helped me recognize what are our superpowers as an organization. Which, ultimately is, the personal touch and focus on supporting childhood cancer families during an unimaginable time.❞ — Tammy Griffin, Chair, Connor’s Heroes Board
Connor’s Heroes Board of Directors and staff spent a weekend diving into a Strategic Plan to get us through the next three years. With the Wonder Tower opening Spring 2023 and families receiving the largest amount of financial support (on average $2,500 a year), Connor’s Heroes is facing an exciting future. We’ve built a reputation among local childhood cancer families as THE nonprofit who knows that the best way to help a family is to get to know a family.
Facilitating the process was Anne Chamberlain. Anne is a local consultant who specializes in group facilitation and leadership development. We know her as simply as “Becca’s mom.” Anne’s experience as a “cancer mom” and friend of Connor’s Heroes enriched the strategic planning experience. Also thank you to our friends at Phlow and CHoR for hosting our crew.
On Saturday, the Board had an exclusive hard-hat tour of the Wonder Tower. A few board members had seen the space in its early stages (when offices were mapped out with cardboard boxes). When they walked in, they immediately said “Wow!” They walked through the five Rooms Filled with Hope. These five rooms are designed for the care and comfort of childhood cancer heroes on the expanded hematology and oncology floor. Each room is designed around the personalized support Connor’s Heroes is known for. The Connor’s Heroes rooms will be much-needed spaces for our staff, volunteers, healthcare teams, researchers, and hero families.
Board members left the two-day session feeling uplifted, inspired, and focused on Connor’s Heroes mission. It’s three words… Hope… Guidance… Support.
