The Sandbox Group

The year 2023 marked a milestone for The Sandbox as we celebrated 13 years of unwavering commitment to supporting families navigating pediatric cancer, rare diagnoses, and life-altering medical journeys. This year, we focused intently on deepening the connections within our community through fellowship, family, and fun ? priorities voiced by our families as critical to overcoming the mental health challenges, loneliness, and desperation that often accompany their journeys. Through diligent effort and an intentional approach to programming, The Sandbox created more opportunities than ever for families to gather, connect, and find joy in togetherness. From community events to small, intimate gatherings, we provided spaces where families could feel seen, heard, and understood by others walking similar paths. Whether sharing a meal, creating art, playing games, or simply being present for one another, these moments of fellowship reminded families that they are never alone. This renewed focus on fellowship directly informed the evolution of our CARRE Program (Caring About Real Relationships Empathetically), amplifying its impact in profound ways. CARRE, which stands at the heart of The Sandbox, is designed to ensure that families receive the personalized, compassionate care they need throughout their journey. By integrating the values of family and fellowship, CARRE became more than a program ? it became a bridge to meaningful relationships. Throughout the year, CARRE facilitated more opportunities for peer-to-peer support, mentorships between seasoned and newly diagnosed families, and connections to resources that prioritized mental health and emotional well-being. We saw firsthand how intentional gatherings helped families build resilience, ease feelings of isolation, and reignite hope. These shared experiences created ripple effects of encouragement that extended far beyond the events themselves. In 2023, we received volunteer support totaling 2010 hours with an estimated value of $42,213. Our commitment to fun was no less important. By crafting joy-filled events, we gave families moments to laugh, play, and celebrate together ? moments that felt normal amidst extraordinary circumstances. From laughter at family movie nights to the smiles shared during seasonal celebrations, 2023 showed us that joy is a healing force. As we reflect on this special 13th year, we are immensely proud of the community we?ve built together. The Sandbox is more than a charity; it is a family of individuals, united by compassion and strengthened by connection. Our yearlong dedication to fellowship and family not only deepened the bonds within our community but also laid the foundation for even greater impact in the years to come. Here?s to continuing this journey of fellowship, family, and fun as we walk together toward brighter tomorrows.