New Leadership Expands Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation

The Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation, a nonprofit based in Orland Park, has welcomed a new executive director, Dawn Leader-Peloso. Using her business and theater background, she aims to spread joy to children with cancer through toys.

Since February, Leader-Peloso extended the foundation’s reach by convincing five additional hospitals to join their mission. These new locations include hospitals in New York City, New Mexico, Minnesota, and Philadelphia. The foundation now boasts 58 treasure chests in hospitals nationwide, including those in the Chicago area.

“We put a treasure chest into a hospital’s cancer unit so kids and teens facing cancer treatment have something to look forward to, and it gives them a little normalcy in their day,” Leader-Peloso said.

Leader-Peloso also collaborates with child-life specialists, who use creative methods like play to help children cope with illness. The organization’s expansion to more hospitals has been a focal point.

Colleen Kissell founded the organization in 1996. Leader-Peloso commends Kissell for her foundational work and has pledged to honor the mission. Drawing from her versatile skills, Leader-Peloso uses her theater background to effectively communicate the organization’s story and purpose. It aids in engaging supporters for their cause.

Leader-Peloso’s career has included roles in marketing at Indiana University Northwest and communications at Glenwood Academy. Her interest in working with children has been a consistent theme in her career.

A Homewood resident since 2004, Leader-Peloso has also served as president of the Homewood Rotary Foundation. Her new role as executive director has seen her implement the foundation’s first strategic plan in 30 years. Improvements in their shipping process and internet security have also been priorities.

Glen Ponczak, a board member, expressed enthusiasm over the foundation’s expansion and the leadership provided by Leader-Peloso. “We’re thrilled that Dawn has already signed up five new Treasure Chest locations in less than a year,” Ponczak said. The foundation aims to further expand its reach and resources.

Leader-Peloso appreciates her work environment, which includes selecting toys from a large warehouse filled with diverse items ready to delight children. She is also involved in organizing the foundation’s fundraiser, the upcoming 14th annual Treasuring Our Kids Gala, which promises a live band, refreshments, and a silent auction.

Tickets for the gala can be purchased on their website. The organization seeks individuals and groups to conduct holiday toy drives and welcomes more volunteer support.

Additionally, they plan to introduce an annual volunteer award to honor former board member Salvatore “Sal” Cirrincione, who passed away earlier this year.