# Community Rallies for Cancer Families: HEADstrong Foundation Raises Over $350,000 at Annual Fundraiser

It’s been 20 years since Nick was diagnosed with cancer and started us on this journey. September is a month that has forever changed our lives, and I’m grateful that we can make it a month dedicated to helping other families and continuing the mission Nick left me with,” said Cheryl Colleluori, Nick’s mother and President of The HEADstrong Foundation.

Cheryl has run the foundation since Nick’s passing in 2006, and has grown The HEADstrong Foundation over the past 19 years to raise over $38 million and help over 39,000 families through residential, financial, and emotional services.

When cancer strikes a family, the challenges extend far beyond medical treatment. For families who must travel to Philadelphia for specialized care, finding safe, affordable housing can become an overwhelming burden during an already difficult time. On Thursday, September 18th, 2025, the Philadelphia community came together to address this critical need, demonstrating the power of collective compassion at The HEADstrong Foundation’s annual fundraiser.

## A Night of Purpose and Impact

The Switch House buzzed with energy as over 250 supporters gathered for “A Night for the HEADstrong Foundation Benefiting Nick’s House Philadelphia.” The evening wasn’t just another charity gala—it was a testament to what happens when a community unites around a shared mission to ease the burden on cancer-fighting families.

The results speak volumes about Philadelphia’s generous spirit: over $350,000 raised and counting, all dedicated to supporting Nick’s House Philadelphia, HEADstrong’s vital initiative that provides complimentary housing to families seeking cancer treatment in the city.

## More Than Just a Roof: The Nick’s House Mission

Located in Swarthmore, Nick’s House Philadelphia serves as much more than temporary housing. It’s a sanctuary where families can focus entirely on what matters most—supporting their loved one through treatment—without the added stress of accommodation costs or unfamiliar surroundings.

For families traveling from across the region and beyond, Nick’s House eliminates one of the most significant barriers to accessing Philadelphia’s world-class cancer treatment facilities. The complimentary stays mean that financial resources can be directed toward medical care and family needs rather than hotel bills that can quickly spiral into thousands of dollars.

## The Ripple Effect of Community Support

The funds raised at this year’s event will directly impact real families facing real challenges. Every dollar contributed helps ensure that when a family receives the devastating news that they need to travel for specialized cancer treatment, they’ll have one less worry on their minds.

The success of this fundraiser reflects Philadelphia’s deep-rooted culture of caring for neighbors in need. From the attendees who opened their hearts and wallets to the volunteers who made the evening possible, each person played a crucial role in extending hope to cancer-fighting families.

## Looking Forward

As the final donation totals continue to climb beyond the initial $350,000, The HEADstrong Foundation is already planning how these resources will expand their ability to serve families. The overwhelming support demonstrates that when communities rally around those facing life’s greatest challenges, extraordinary things become possible.

For cancer families who will benefit from Nick’s House Philadelphia in the months ahead, this fundraiser represents something profound: proof that they are not alone in their fight, and that sometimes the kindness of strangers can provide exactly the support needed to keep moving forward.

*The HEADstrong Foundation continues to accept donations for Nick’s House Philadelphia. To learn more about their mission or to contribute, visit their website or contact the foundation directly.*For more information on The HEADstrong Foundation and A Night for HEADstrong, please visit their website, headstrong.org. Also, follow along on their Instagram @headstrongfnd and Facebook page HEADstrong Foundation.

Photo Courtesy of The HEADstrong Foundation & LoveShack Photo