Life Is Good No Matter What

Overview

Life Is Good No Matter What is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to providing escapes and enriching experiences for adults with cancer in Northeast Ohio. The organization aims to help these individuals step away from the stresses of cancer treatment and live life to the fullest.

History

The nonprofit was founded in 2012 by Troy Haslinger in honor of his sister, Holly Sneider, who passed away at the age of 39 due to colon cancer. Holly would often remind those around her that "life is good no matter what," which became the guiding mantra for the organization. Initially headquartered in Akron, Ohio, the group expanded its efforts to better serve the community.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Life Is Good No Matter What is to provide two primary forms of respite for adults with cancer:

1. Traditional Escapes: These are opportunities for breaks from cancer treatment, which can include destination vacations or local activities.
2. Good Delivery Program: Designed for those who cannot leave their homes, this program delivers goods and services to provide comfort and joy.

The vision is to deepen local partnerships, strengthen relationships in the medical community, and mobilize volunteers to support those in need.

Operations and Impact

The organization focuses on delivering cherished experiences that create lasting memories for recipients and their families. Recipients can be nominated by medical personnel, family, friends, or through self-nomination. To be eligible, they must have a valid cancer diagnosis and reside in Northeast Ohio. Life Is Good No Matter What covers the costs associated with these escapes, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per experience.

Funding and Governance

Life Is Good No Matter What is a tax-exempt organization, with donations being tax deductible. The organization relies on fundraising, contributions, and corporate sponsorships to support its activities. Key employees and directors, including those listed in past financial reports, are not compensated, reflecting the organization's commitment to voluntary leadership.

Tax Status

The organization is tax-exempt since September 2013 and is registered as a human services organization under the NTEE classification.

Legacy and Future Plans

As the organization continues to grow, it remains focused on providing meaningful escapes to those battling cancer. By expanding partnerships and volunteer engagement, Life Is Good No Matter What aims to impact more lives and create lasting memories for families dealing with cancer.