Claire’s Place Foundation launches Ambassador & Advisory program
New initiative puts those living with CF 'at the heart' of nonprofit's work
Claire’s Place Foundation, a nonprofit supporting children and families affected by cystic fibrosis (CF), has launched a CF Ambassador & Advisory program — and is now seeking to grow the new initiative.
By involving advocates and people living with CF in the foundation’s mission, and amplifying patient voices within the community, the Ambassador & Advisory program aims to empower all those affected by CF, according to a press release from the nonprofit. Claire’s Place Foundation is now looking for additional ambassadors and advisors to join the program.
“We are so excited to kick off our CF Ambassador & Advisory Program! This program is a powerful way to elevate the voices of individuals living with CF and ensure they remain at the heart of everything we do,” said Melissa Yeager, the executive director of Claire’s Place Foundation.
In CF, CTFR gene mutations cause the body to produce abnormally thick and sticky mucus that builds up in various organs. The buildup of mucus leads to most symptoms of CF, including lung and digestive problems.
Claire Wineland, a CF patient, started Claire’s Place in 2011 when she was 13. As an activist, author, and TEDx speaker, Wineland was the recipient of numerous awards recognizing her contributions to the CF community. She died in September 2018 following complications from a double lung transplant.
Claire’s Place Foundation seeking ‘inspiring individuals’ to join initiative
In addition to connecting and supporting the CF community through its website and now its new CF Ambassador & Advisory program, the foundation offers financial support to people living with the genetic disease. To date, the program has awarded more than $1 million in the form of extended hospital stay grants. Altogether, some 5,000 people have benefitted from the foundation’s financial assistance.
Right now, Claire’s Place Foundation is also operating an LA Fire and Emergency Fund for people living with CF and their families who are affected by the fires in Los Angeles. The fund is providing monies to cover the cost of essentials, such as food, temporary lodging, and air purifiers. A hospital employee, such as a social worker, doctor, or nurse, can submit a referral describing the person’s diagnosis along with any financial need due to the fires.
In its announcement of the new CF Ambassador & Advisory program, the foundation introduced two individuals who will take part in the initiative: Amelia Fair and Lauren Luteran.
With my background in outreach, networking and advocacy — and as a CF patient myself — I am eager to contribute my expertise to this impactful organization. … I am honored to continue Claire’s legacy and help drive the foundation’s goals forward.
Fair, who has CF, was appointed as the advisory committee chair. Noting that she is “inspired by my role model Claire Wineland,” Fair said she plans to use her experience in strategic planning, public service, and community engagement to further strengthen the program’s impact.
“With my background in outreach, networking and advocacy — and as a CF patient myself — I am eager to contribute my expertise to this impactful organization,” Fair said. “I am honored to continue Claire’s legacy and help drive the foundation’s goals forward.”
Lauren Luteran will serve as a CF ambassador. A second-grade teacher, Luteran was described by the foundation as being “a passionate CF advocate.” She will represent the nonprofit and continue its efforts toward “creating hope and strength for CF families,” per the release.
“As I work in education, I look forward to using my voice outside the classroom to support the foundation’s mission and make a meaningful impact in the CF community,” Luteran said.
Interested individuals from the CF community should email [email protected] to find out more about participating in the initiative.
According to Yeager, “Lauren and Amelia bring incredible passion and unique perspectives that will enhance our efforts. We hope to grow this program with more inspiring individuals from the CF community to create an even greater impact.”
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