Our Executive Director, Colleen Bucci participated in the Skigital Women In Business Series. Check out the blog, which is also posted on Skigital’s website:

Today, we’re excited to spotlight Colleen Bucci, Executive Director at Connect Thru Cancer. Colleen shares her inspiring journey of turning a personal challenge into a meaningful career dedicated to supporting families impacted by cancer.

How a Sister’s Cancer Battle Sparked a Life-Changing Mission

Colleen entered the nonprofit world in a profoundly personal way, motivated by her twin sister Cathy’s cancer diagnosis when they were both 32. As her sister navigated treatment while raising two young children, Colleen witnessed firsthand the overwhelming need for support services that catered not only to the patient’s needs but also to those of their families. Inspired by this experience, Colleen took action to help turn a vision into reality, creating programs that provided essential emotional and practical support.

In 2007, Cathy established the nonprofit Cuddle My Kids (CMK) as a no-cost cancer support program that offers in-home enrichment and creative play for children whose parent or caregiver is undergoing cancer treatment. CMK provides these cancer patients with a much-needed respite, allowing them to focus on their recovery and personal needs. At the same time, the program engages and stimulates the children through creative play, arts and crafts, books, and music. Delivered as a six-week in-home program, with re-enrollment available as needed, Cuddle My Kids (now known as Connect Thru Cancer) aims to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients and their families during treatment.

Colleen’s Role in Expanding Connect Thru Cancer’s Impact

Since 2015, Colleen has served as the Executive Director of Connect Thru Cancer. She leads program development, fundraising, community outreach, and strategic planning, ensuring that the organization continues to provide free, comprehensive support to families affected by cancer. Her passion lies in growing the nonprofit’s reach and fostering a strong sense of community among those navigating such difficult times.

Colleen’s Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders

1. Follow Your Passion, But Be Ready to Pivot: Colleen never set out to work in the nonprofit sector, but when her sister needed help turning her vision into reality, she knew she had to do it. She encourages women to be open to unexpected opportunities and trust where their passion leads them.
2. Build a Strong Support System: Colleen emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with mentors, peers, and a trusted team that will help you navigate challenges and confidently grow into your role.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks: Rebranding their organization was a big step, but it allowed them to serve our community better. Growth often requires bold decisions, so Colleen encourages women to trust their instincts and the mission they’re working toward.
4. Lead with Compassion and Purpose: For Colleen, the impact in the nonprofit space is measured in numbers and in the lives touched. She reminds women that staying connected to the people they serve will keep their work meaningful and fulfilling.
5. Embrace Lifelong Learning: Whether it’s leadership development, fundraising strategies, or community engagement, Colleen advocates for a constant willingness to learn and adapt. She believes that the more knowledge you gain, the stronger your leadership will be.

Colleen’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and purpose. Her journey from supporting her sister through cancer to leading an organization that helps countless families is inspiring and empowering.

Thank you for celebrating Colleen Bucci’s inspirational career with us. Stay tuned for more remarkable stories in our series!