Rays of Resilience

From Our Leadership

Perhaps the most critical trait of a durable organization – particularly in a rapidly changing world such as we have experienced over the past 4-5 years – is the ability to quickly pivot . . . to never get stuck in “this is the way we’ve always done it,” but rather to meet the moment wherever that moment is. Through a worldwide pandemic, an economic upheaval and now even through war, Sunrise’s devotion to our children and families is unwavering. But commitment and execution are not the same; the not-for-profit and business worlds are fraught with examples of great intentions that have fizzled out as time-tested solutions failed to meet the challenges of the day.

NOT SO HERE.

When Covid-19 shut down the world, Sunrise moved its programming into cyberspace, creating Sunrise Studios, Sunrise VX, Wheels Up! and a host of new programs that not only met the needs of the day, but have continued to thrive even after the crisis receded. When we found ourselves locked out of traditional fundraising opportunities, we created on-line telethons and virtual walks, raising millions of dollars to keep moving forward until more traditional methods reemerged. And today, with war impacting our camps and hospital programs in Israel, Sunrise has developed new funding strategies, engaged new partners, and has shifted programming to create safer spaces for children now dealing with the double hit of a life-threatening illness and a life-threatening conflict. And we have done so without sacrificing any of our values, steadfastly maintaining our commitment to serving diverse populations both at home and abroad, even in the midst of conflict.

Today, Sunrise continues to expand internationally, creating summer camps and in-hospital programs that at the time of this writing span 6 countries and reach 50,000 children annually. And as we have always done, we continue to seek new, innovative ways to bring services and hope to children struggling with cancer. From “A Taste of Sunrise Day Camp” inside of Florida hospitals to opening new Sunrise on Wheels programs in cities with no Sunrise camps, to expanding our virtual programs internationally or introducing virtual reality to children who are bedridden, this is an organization that rarely sits still… never basking in our accomplishments but instead looking to the future, embracing change before change can engulf us.

The impact report that you are reading is actually a journey; here we explore the core programming and commitment which Sunrise is built on, while peering into the ways in which those values and principles manifest themselves today. It’s a fascinating look at an organization determined to meet emerging needs during changing times without ever blurring or diluting its commitment to its central purpose – our children.

Thank you for your interest and your support.