Julie’s Fundraiser to Support On Belay

Dear Friends,

On Belay is an organization near and dear to me, not only the Executive Director, but as a Mom and as a cancer survivor. We run free, year-round adventure programs for youth ages 8-18 who are impacted by a loved one’s cancer diagnosis. I joined the team at On Belay 6 months ago, and know firsthand the impact and difference our programs make.  We provide families support and programs that are unique as a non-traditional therapeutic program and as the only organization of our kind in our area.  We serve children from all over New England and partner with hospitals, schools, treatment centers, local organizations and businesses for referrals and who align with our mission to support youth through the challenges cancer in the family can bring. We support the silent warriors in a diagnosis - the children who walk alongside their parent, sibling or another loved one as the battle. By creating a community of peers who are or have gone through similar challenges and lived experiences, children feel supported and connected. We help them find their inner strength, build resilience, make friends and have fun, during what otherwise may be one of the most challenging times they face in their family. 

Please join me during our NHGives event and donate to support On Belay and our mission. Any amount is greatly appreciated! Thank you! 

Read on for more of what we do….

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A Story of Strength, Connection, and Healing

When a child hears the words “cancer” in their family, everything changes. The world can suddenly feel uncertain, isolating, and heavy in ways no young person should have to carry alone.

That’s where On Belay steps in.

On a crisp morning in the mountains, a group of kids gathers at the base of a climbing wall. Some are quiet. Some are nervous. All of them have one thing in common: cancer has touched their lives. A parent, a sibling, someone they love is fighting a battle that has reshaped their world.

As harnesses are clipped and helmets secured, something begins to shift.

A camper starts the climb, hesitant at first, then more confident. Halfway up they pause - unsure if they can continue. Then they hear voices below rise up in support:  “You’ve got this!” “We’re right here!”

In that moment, it’s no longer about cancer. It’s about courage, trust and belonging. 

At On Belay, these moments happen time and time again. Through adventure-based programs: rock climbing, hiking, paddling, ropes courses and team challenges, kids discover something powerful within themselves: resilience and inner strength. They build friendships with others who truly understand. They laugh, they push their limits, and they begin to heal.

Healing happens with connection, with community, and in fun moments of joy. In these times, it is when a child realizes they are not alone.

Your support makes these experiences possible.

It gives a child the chance to climb higher than they thought they could -on the wall, and in life.

Join us. Help us continue to create these moments and adventures where kids impacted by cancer can find strength, joy, and each other.