As we mark our 35th anniversary, I find myself reflecting not just on how far Wellness House has come, but on the thousands of people who have walked through our doors seeking connection, understanding, and support. Since 1990, more than 52,000 individuals and families have participated in our programs, each bringing their own story and finding their own path forward.
Wellness House was founded on a simple but powerful belief: that caring for the emotional and social well-being of people affected by cancer is just as vital as treating the disease itself. In our early years, that belief came to life through the first support groups, movement classes, and family programs that filled the rooms of what we lovingly call the Home of Hope. By 2004, more than 15,000 people had already been served, and it was clear that this kind of care was deeply needed.
As the years passed, our reach continued to grow. In 2015, we launched Wellness Beyond Walls to bring our programs into hospitals and community settings across Chicagoland. Today, that model has expanded to 14 partner locations, allowing more people to access support closer to home.
When the pandemic disrupted so many aspects of care, we adapted quickly. Our online programs expanded and now account for a quarter of all we offer, helping ensure that distance or circumstance never stand in the way of connection.
Today, Wellness House provides more than 525 programs each month, all offered at no cost. This past year, more than 4,000 individuals participated in nearly 50,000 visits, reporting meaningful improvements in their sense of well-being, connection, and quality of life. While these numbers matter, what stays with me most are the personal stories. Participants who describe finding hope during the most difficult moments of their lives. Families who feel seen, supported, and less alone.
As we reflect on 35 years of service and look ahead to what comes next, I am filled with gratitude. Thank you for being part of this community and for helping ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.
Lisa Kolavennu, MA, LCPC
Chief Executive Officer
Wellness House
