From the Desk of James J. Pepe – Director of Development & Marketing
22 December 25
As the calendar drifts quickly to 2026, there is always value in looking at the year that is finished. For Cancer Support Community – Greater Lehigh Valley, it has been a year of tremendous growth, transition and paving the way for a brighter future.
Thanks to the work of staff, event committees, and volunteers, we enjoyed one of our most successful event years to date. While there were so many wins (The Charlie & Don Patt Golf Tournament exceeded expectations, Boutique of Hope settled well at a new location, Survivor Summit grew in attendance and sponsor support, Golf4Cancer increased attendance to 2 full flights, Little Pink Dress Party and Beards for Breasts held fantastic events and we launched a Holiday event), the one that stands out most to me is Wings of Hope.
After joining CSCGLV in December 2024, one of the main goals was to take Wings of Hope and make it the Signature Event it deserves to be. By changing the location to Bear Creek, adding more time and activities, and bringing in special guests, all while keeping the importance of the butterfly release intact, we pushed this event to the level it deserves. It really sets things up nicely for 2026.
We were fortunate to take our marketing efforts to new levels, launching a new website in June after years of discussion, bringing consistency to social media, emails to members and donors, and to being out in the community to ensure people know who we are and what we do. We don’t plan on resting on our laurels in this area.
2025 has also seen important improvements to our Board of Directors. Several new members joined our Board, bringing fresh perspectives and new ideas to our organization as we plot the next few years of growth, both on the development side and the program side.
While it is great to look at the year that was, it’s just as important to look forward to what is ahead. CSCGLV is striving to increase growth, not only through the various fundraising activities, but also through our programs. We have set goals to serve more people than ever in a single year with programs that provide great support in the areas our members need most.
We look forward to these new challenges, while also preparing to see you in the community in greater numbers than ever before. As always, we are here to help you, your family, friends and colleagues when impacted by a cancer diagnosis.
Personally, I’d like to wish you all a Happy and Healthy Holidays Season and a Joyous New Year.
Regards,
James