In 1991, Linda Sivak of Youngsville recognized the lack of support for families who have a child with a chronic illness and started Caring For Life. For 13 years, Linda laid the foundation for a much needed service. We thank Linda for having the compassion, drive and enthusiasm to begin a new organization that continues to help Warren County families during their greatest time of need.
In 2004, Linda passed the torch to Lori McNeal and a new board of directors was formed. Since December of 2004, we have registered 65 families, given out 75 care packages, and reimbursed families $57,133.93! We currently serve 31 active families. It's bittersweet knowing that we've helped so many families. We're happy to be able to offer them support, but saddend that so many children in our community struggle with chronic, often times, life threatening diseases. The faith, determination and perserverance that our families show inspires us to carry on our mission to help other families.
We currently have 15 volunteer board members who each offer their compassion, wisdom, and time to CFL.They are:
President: Michelle Johnson
Vice President: Jayne Blake
Secretary: Cris Beuger
Treasurer: Kirsten Turfitt
Executive Director: Lori McNeal
Kathryn Carlson Timothy Coombs, MD Tom & Sue Curtin
Deborah Deppas Melissa Lemay Dick Merenick
Dot Pearson Suzanne Welker Kerstin Wyman Sue Yovich
We have been fortunate to have continued support from so many businesses and individuals in our community that have allowed CFL to continue to provide emotional and financial support to our families. We are also blessed to have the support of the United Fund of Warren County. As CFL enters its 18th year, we thank our supporters for allowing us to continue our goal of absorbing the emotional and financial strain that our families endure so that they may rightfully focus on their child and family.