Twist Out Cancer: Company Profile

Background

Twist Out Cancer is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing psychosocial support to individuals affected by cancer through creative arts programming. Founded in 2012 by Jenna Benn Shersher, a survivor of grey zone lymphoma, the organization has grown into a global community that enables survivors, previvors, caregivers, and artists to share, connect, and heal. The mission of Twist Out Cancer is to use creative arts to offer social and emotional support to those impacted by cancer.

Key Strategic Focus

Twist Out Cancer focuses on leveraging creative arts as a mechanism for healing and connection among individuals touched by cancer. Its core objectives include:

• Brushes with Cancer: A program that pairs individuals affected by cancer ("Inspirations") with artists who create unique works of art reflecting the individual's journey. This initiative has expanded to various cities, including Chicago, Ann Arbor, Detroit, Toronto, Montreal, Tel Aviv, Philadelphia, and Austin.

• Twistshops: Art therapy-based workshops designed to promote healing, relaxation, and emotional recovery through guided art-making activities. These workshops aim to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress related to cancer.

The organization targets a diverse community comprising survivors, previvors, caregivers, and artists, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in its programming.

Financials and Funding

As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, Twist Out Cancer relies on philanthropic support to deliver its programs. The organization has participated in fundraising initiatives such as GivingTuesday, aiming to raise significant funds through matching grants. For instance, between November 1st and December 1st, Twist Out Cancer aimed to raise $25,000 through a matching grant sponsored by the Coleman Foundation, where every donation of $175 or more was matched with a $175 gift from the foundation.

Pipeline Development

Twist Out Cancer continually develops and expands its programs to reach a broader audience. The organization has hosted Brushes with Cancer programs and art exhibitions in multiple cities worldwide and has plans to launch the program in new locations, including Austin, Detroit, and Philadelphia.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The organization has embraced virtual platforms to expand its reach and accessibility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Twist Out Cancer transitioned to virtual programming, enabling participants from across the United States, Germany, the U.K., and more to engage in its initiatives. This shift has allowed the organization to reach underserved communities and provide support to individuals who may not have access to in-person events.

Leadership Team

• Jenna Benn Shersher: Founder and CEO, based in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. As a survivor of grey zone lymphoma, Jenna established Twist Out Cancer to create a supportive community for those affected by cancer.

• Andrew Edelston: National Board Chair and Executive Board Member, Financial Advisor at Lakefront Group at Morgan Stanley, located in Glencoe, Illinois.

• Jennifer Indig: Executive Board Member and Founder of Fern Hill Project, based in New York.

• Emma Peck Block: Executive Board Member and Secretary, Clinical Social Worker at Formative Psychological Services in Chicago, Illinois.

• Cynthia Beck: Executive Board Member from Chicago, Illinois.

• Danny Glick: Executive Board Member and Real Estate Broker at The Danny Glick Group in Chicago, Illinois.

• Josh Taustein: Executive Board Member and Director of Marketing and Communications at Continuum Clinical in Morton Grove, Illinois.

• Jon Goldberg: Executive Board Member and President of Padcaster in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

• Dr. Christian Squillante: Executive Board Member, Medical Oncologist and Internal Medicine Specialist in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

• Erin Johnson: Executive Board Member and Office Manager at Searl Lamaster Howe Architects in Chicago, Illinois.

• Howard Aaron: Executive Board Member, Personal Trainer and Health Motivator in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

• Joelle Goldman Bilow: Executive Board Member from Glencoe, Illinois.

• Dan Hadad: Executive Board Member from Toronto, Ontario.

• Kevin Morgan: Executive Board Member and Partner at JMA Ventures, LLC in San Francisco, California.

• Alex Perry: Executive Board Member from Chicago, Illinois.

• Jenn Katz Margolis: Executive Board Member and Global Coverage Officer at Private Equity ADP in Washington, District of Columbia.

Leadership Changes

As of