Empowering Children and Their Families Battling Cancer

In honor of Cancer Awareness Month, Tina speaks with Shannon Berk of Just In Power Kids to bring awareness to this local non-profit that has helped more than 140 families who've been impacted by childhood cancer within the state of Maryland! The mission of Just In Power Kids is to financially support children and their families who have received a recent cancer diagnosis and as well as to provide a community that offers support, resources and hope. In this blog post as well as in our podcast, we will delve into the heartwarming work of Shannon Berk and Justin Berk the co-founders of Just In Power Kids, exploring its history, initiatives, and the positive change the organization brings to countless lives.

Mission and Vision

Just In Power Kids' mission is one of great compassion: "empower children confronting cancer by partnering with holistic practitioners to provide integrative therapies, supportive care, and informative workshops in conjunction with their chosen medical treatment." They aim to empower these children by providing them with the resources necessary to improve their quality of life during and after their fight against cancer by alleviating some of the the financial burden faced by families who have a child diagnosed with cancer. Through generous donations and fundraisers, the organization strives to be a source of strength, solidarity, and support for families throughout their cancer journey.

Programs

Relief and Restore

The Relief and Restore program provides financial support and assistance for medical bills, transportation, accommodations and other essential needs related to a cancer journey that is not covered by insurance. Just In Power Kids knows that caring for a child with cancer is not only emotionally taxing, but can also lead to financial strain. Just In Power Kids strives to make live easier. Examples of funding includes housekeeping services, lawn-keeping services, co-pays, therapy, lodging expenses and more.

Nutrition 

The Nutrition programs offers flash frozen, nutritious, chef prepared meals. Meals can be chosen and customized to meet your needs. The nutrition programs takes one less thing off your proverbial plate, while making sure your body is getting the nutrition it needs. Meals can be delivered to the homes of Just In Power Kids' families and are also available at the Johns Hopkins food pantry.

Parking Program

Available for patients receiving treatment at Johns Hopkins, the Parking Programs helps reduce the financial burden of treatment by paying for parking.

Re-Source Program

Each year Just In Power Kids provides 5 endowments ($5,000 each) to an organization that is in honor of, created by, or in memorial to a child is is/was previously a Just In Power kid, or a 501(c)(3) non profit status organization whose funding supports those affected by pediatric cancer. Some of the organizations that have received funding include:

Abby's Carts of Courage (another way to donate here)

Ari's Bears

Ella Strong

Josh's Jammies

Getting Involved and Making a Difference

Supporting Just In Power Kids can take various forms, and every contribution, no matter how big or small, makes a difference. From individual donations to participating in fundraising events, volunteering, or spreading awareness on social media, there are countless ways to extend a helping hand to this incredible cause. Throughout the year, Just In Power Kids hosts various fundraising events, such as gold tournaments and donations drives at trade shows and local businesses, with their largest fundraising event being the Maryland Trek, a 7 day trek from Deep Creek to Ocean City, where participants complete a marathon + a 20 miles bike trek EACH DAY. Each day of the trek honors a different Just In Power KID, sharing their strength, courage, and story to our community,



Over the years, Just In Power Kids has become a lifeline for numerous families facing the devastating impact of childhood cancer. Through their unwavering support, they have not only lightened financial burdens but also provided emotional strength, hope, and camaraderie during the toughest battles. Families and communities have come together to support the organization's efforts, recognizing the invaluable role it plays in transforming lives.If you want to be part of this heartwarming movement or learn more about Just In Power Kids and the incredible work they do, visit their website at www.Justinpowerkids.org.