Chiera Family Foundation’s Derby Night Raises $450,000 for Kids’ Cancer

Broken Sound Country Club, Boca Raton, FL, USA - On May 4, 2025, the Chiera Family Foundation hosted its 32nd annual fundraiser, N.I.C.K.’s Night at the Derby, at the Broken Sound Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida. With over 300 guests dressed in their finest Derby attire, the event was not just a glamorous gathering but a heartfelt effort to support children battling cancer. The evening was filled with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a live auction, showcasing the community’s commitment to a noble cause.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, the event raised an impressive $450,000. This significant funding will go towards providing summer camp experiences and scholarships for young cancer survivors. Over the years, the Chiera Family Foundation has raised more than $5.4 million to aid this vulnerable population. Among the many heartfelt moments during the evening, children who previously participated in N.I.C.K.’s programs were honored on stage, embodying the spirit of resilience and hope that guides this foundation.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Chiera Family Foundation is not alone in its mission to support young people affected by cancer. Other organizations also offer various scholarships designed for survivors and children impacted by cancer. For instance, the **Beyond the Cure** scholarship from the National Children’s Cancer Society awards annual stipends to college-bound cancer survivors who are under 25 and were diagnosed before the age of 18. Additional opportunities include the **Cancer Survivors’ Fund**, which provides scholarships based on hardship and academic qualifications, reflecting a commitment to ease educational burdens stemming from their illness. Other scholarships serve specific interests, like the **Brian Morden Memorial Scholarship**, designated for those pursuing technology, music, or medicine.

These programs convey the message that education is not just a privilege but a right, especially for those who have faced such challenges. The Chiera Family Foundation also announced new scholarships in memory of individuals who had a profound impact on the community, ensuring their legacies live on through the aid provided to future generations.

Comprehensive Support for Families

It’s important to note that the challenges posed by childhood cancer extend beyond just health. The emotional and financial strains can be overwhelming. The Kids Cancer Alliance (KCA) is another valuable resource that seeks to alleviate some of these burdens with its financial assistance programs. Their initiatives include a Scholarship Fund that supports young adult cancer survivors and helps cover educational expenses at accredited institutions. This ensures that survivors can focus on their academic and professional aspirations without the added stress of financial worries.

KCA’s Financial Assistance Program helps families with essential expenses related to a child’s cancer treatment, including rent, utilities, and travel costs, easing the financial strain that typically accompanies a cancer diagnosis. The organization even provides gas cards to families, aiming to mitigate transportation costs associated with attending camp programs, showcasing a well-rounded approach to assistance.

A Community United for a Cause

The commitment shown by the community during events like N.I.C.K.’s Night at the Derby illustrates a collective dedication to stand beside families affected by childhood cancer. During the evening, notable contributions included $45,000 from the Rotary Club of Coral Springs and $40,000 from the Penny Glazer McClurg Family Fund, underscoring a powerful network of support within Boca Raton and beyond. As the Chiera Family Foundation looks ahead, it continues its mission to provide both emotional and financial support to children needing help, shining a light on their strength and resilience.

In a world where childhood cancer casts a long shadow, organizations and individuals are stepping up to offer hope, encouragement, and tangible support. As we reflect on the ebullient gathering at the Broken Sound Country Club, it’s clear that community spirit remains a formidable force in the fight against childhood cancer.

For more information about the Chiera Family Foundation and their invaluable work, visit their website or contact them at 954-480-8809.