What inspires people to give? For some, it’s a personal experience. For others, like Jim and Nancy Cleveland, it’s a moment that opens their eyes to a need. At The Country Club of Hudson, a group hosted an event featuring a performance by kids in palliative care at Akron Children’s. “It was moving to see […]
Archives for 2025
Professionals on purpose: A committed cohort of 25 business leaders makes lasting change
Business professionals are used to having an impact in their companies. Through the Emerging Leaders Board at Akron Children’s, they’re able to have an impact on the healthy futures of children. Since its formation in 2011, the group has raised nearly $2 million — and is now fulfilling a $1.5 million pledge. “In the next […]
Twin boys are thriving 1 year after their emergency birth
When Alison Speelman learned she was pregnant in the fall 2023, it was a total surprise. But a bigger surprise was yet to come. “I had my first ultrasound at 7 weeks, and that’s when we found out we were having twins,” she said. “My husband, Josh, and I didn’t speak on the ride home […]
Investing in their roots: Kyle and Samantha Quillen help kids in Tuscarawas County
Kyle and Samantha Quillen have a deep love for Tuscarawas County, Ohio – the place where they grew up and now live, work and raise their son. This rural county boasts good schools, hardworking people, an interesting mix of businesses and a tight-knit community where people support each other through the good and bad. The […]
A couple’s lasting gift: The Tom and Jill Lincoln Foundation ensures local care for kids
Leaving a legacy to your family is meaningful; leaving a legacy to your community is powerful. Years after their passing, Tom and Jill Lincoln’s love of Medina County continues to be expressed through The Tom and Jill Lincoln Foundation, an estate-based foundation that benefits a variety of initiatives solely in Medina County. The Lincoln Foundation […]
Garrett bursts with energy after two open-heart surgeries
Liz Balizet of Navarre, Ohio didn’t realize the great pediatric care that’s available in northeast Ohio until her first child was diagnosed with a complex heart condition. Liz’s 20-week ultrasound showed problems with her baby boy’s heart. She and her husband, Jake, received a referral to the Akron Children’s Heart Center. “We went out to […]













