Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation

The foundation pursues a dual mission: funding scientific research into pediatric brain tumors and providing direct support services to affected families. It is the largest nonprofit in the United States dedicated exclusively to childhood brain tumors. The foundation was established in 1991 by families who lost children to the disease.

The foundation prioritizes early-career investigators and translational research that bridges laboratory discoveries and clinical application. It funds multi-institutional consortia including the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium and the Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium. The foundation's scientific advisory board, composed of leading neuro-oncologists, reviews and recommends grants.

The foundation offers financial assistance for travel and lodging during treatment, free educational resources about childhood brain tumors, and a national peer-support network that connects parents and survivors. These programs aim to reduce the logistical and emotional burdens families face during their child's treatment and recovery.

The foundation raises money through community fundraising events, including the Ride for Kids motorcycle charity rides and Starry Night 5K walks, as well as individual and corporate donations. It does not receive direct government funding and operates as a public charity under IRS Section 501(c)(3).

Yes, the foundation has funded research at over 50 institutions, including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and Duke University Medical Center. These collaborations typically involve multi-year grants to specific investigators or shared consortia.