Our Mission
The mission of the Jared Box Project is to entertain and put a smile on the faces of children in the hospital.
History
The Jared Box Project was started in 2001 by the children of Our Lady of Victory School in State College, Pennsylvania, to honor their classmate and friend, Jared. He was a brave little boy who battled cancer with a courage and faith that continues to inspire us all.
Since then, more than 1,000,000 Jared Boxes have been delivered to over 500 hospitals across the United States. Boxes filled with the “gift of play” are given to young patients in emergency rooms, hospital rooms, surgical centers and clinics. Each box contains small gifts, toys, games, crayons, coloring books and fun activities selected for a specific age and gender.
We are a ‘Give Local’ project. Thousands of groups, families, and individuals have made and delivered Jared boxes to hospitals in their own communities. Children and their parents are so thankful for these boxes that showcase the importance of play and are filled with well wishes, hope and love.
Who We Are
The Jared Box Project is promoted and sustained by volunteers. It is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Cindy Kolarik, Executive Director
Board of Directors:
Ruth McMullen, Board Chair
Stephen Baier
Danyell Bundy
Jodi Ehrensberger
Erica Zong Evenson
Karen Infield
Lynne Karish
Maureen Karstetter
Tracie Shannon
Beth Smith
Maria Spencer
JoAnne Venturino