The Wellness Community: Quality-of-life Programs for Families Battling Cancer

A fall evening under the stars for a backyard dinner party at an historic 1906 home — The Wellness Community’s annual Porch Party fundraiser (held this year on Oct. 20) welcomes guests to “feel like you’re in your own home, in the backyard, having dinner with your friends,” says Executive Director Vikki Scarafiotti.

The financial goal for the event is to raise $300,000, approximately 15 percent of the year’s revenue. Its other purpose is equally significant, says Scarafiotti. “People can see where our services are delivered.” The Wellness Community exists to help people be supported through their journey with cancer. “Home is one of the elements of that journey, and our services are designed to be given in a home-like setting.”

The highlight of the evening’s program describing the work of The Wellness Community will be honoring Derrick and Amy Hall. Derrick Hall, president and CEO of the Arizona Diamondbacks, became an honorary co-chairman spokesperson after his bout with prostate cancer. A special “experience with the Diamondbacks” is one of the items expected to generate lively bidding during the live auction with which the evening will culminate.

Snapshot

• The Wellness Community’s services encompass 150 programs that reach nearly 2,300 cancer patients each year.
• All programs and services are provided free of charge.
• Programs are designed to provide support, therapy and services to improve quality of life for cancer victims and their caretakers.
• Among the programs is Kid to Kid, for children whose parents have been diagnosed with cancer.
• In addition to 35 part-time staff — licensed clinicians and social workers and certified Yoga instructors — who provide most of the services, the organization employs 10 full-time staff.
• The Wellness Community also maintains partnerships with major hospitals that serve cancer patients.
• Founded in 1997, the organization receives no federal or government money but is funded by individual donations and corporate sponsorships.