What began as a kitchen-table operation in 2003 helping a single family at Christmas has grown into a full-scale nonprofit supporting hundreds of local families battling cancer year-round. Christmas Without Cancer, a 501(c)(3) organization, officially opened its first physical location in Orland Park last November.
The new office at 15418 S. Harlem Ave. allows the organization to broaden its services beyond seasonal support. “We are excited to expand our programs this spring, starting with a special survivorship program,” said Renee Copeland, president of Christmas Without Cancer. “Each family we help has unique needs. Sometimes that’s mortgages or rent, car payments, tuition, household expenses, transportation, prescriptions, co-pays, or even travel costs for out-of-state treatments. Other times, it’s helping create lasting memories through Bears, Cubs, Sox, and Hawks games, concerts, weekend getaways, and more.”
Copeland, who joined the nonprofit in 2018 after her cousin’s youngest son was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer, said the organization has had a profound impact on both the families it serves and the broader community. “I’ve had the joy of meeting countless incredible individuals,” she said. “While financial support is crucial, families benefit so much more from therapy, mentorship, classes, and programs that nurture the entire family. Having our first physical location allows us to provide that holistic support.”
In 2025 alone, Christmas Without Cancer assisted 475 families over the course of the year, including 99 families during the holiday season. Copeland said the organization continues to grow, adapting its services to meet the evolving needs of families facing cancer.
“Christmas Without Cancer holds a special place in my heart and in our community,” Copeland said. “Now, with our new location, we can help even more families, not just at Christmas, but every day.”