Every Day Hero Goals
Celebrating Patient Support
Program Milestones
every day hero voices
Advocating for Research,
Faster Cures & Better Treatments
making an impact since 2009
We rush to bring hope and encouragement
to children battling cancer and advocate for a cure.
You have the power to bring hope and encouragement to children fighting cancer. Your donation or volunteer work with the Pot of Gold program can make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Together, we can create moments of joy and support for these brave children as they navigate their challenging journey.
Striking Gold: Our Team's Journey to Success
Since the Pot of Gold program got started, we've delivered to nearly 1,400 heroes and their siblings.
By working closely with over 135 children's hospitals across the United States, this remarkable initiative has been able to bring a ray of light to those navigating their most challenging journeys. Through its unwavering dedication, the Pot of Gold program continues to uplift spirits, inspire resilience, and offer a glimmer of joy to children and their families during their most difficult times.
how it works
How to Refer the Next Pot of Gold Hero
To request a Pot of Gold, please ensure that the care team at the hospital, such as a social worker or child life specialist, submits the request form on behalf of the child. This program is specifically for children with a diagnosis of childhood cancer, ranging from birth to the age of twenty. Please note that only one Pot of Gold is provided per child.
we recognize and celebrate the
Every Day Hero ®
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Childhood Cancer Fighters
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Siblings to Children Fighting Cancer
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Volunteers in the Pot of Gold Program
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Donors Who Make it All Possible
We Advocate for children fighting cancer with the hope that
Not One More Child, Not One More Family ®
Will Hear Those Words
Children receiving a cancer diagnosis marks the onset of a challenging journey that profoundly affects the entire family. It is a battle we strive to overcome within our lifetime, hoping for a future where no child or family has to endure the pain and uncertainty of this devastating disease.
“I cannot begin to explain my gratitude and appreciation. We are so thankful we were at a loss for words, walking into the room and seeing how much was gifted to Maylaa. She was so shocked and grateful. Thank you isn't enough for how appreciative we are. Thank you, thank you for everything you did for our little girl and sister!”
Yulissa R.
what's the rush?
Showing Up Big: Supporting Kids Fighting Cancer
Our dedicated volunteers tirelessly spread hope and encouragement across the United States. Join our team of passionate supporters who are committed to making a difference in the lives of young heroes battling cancer. Your donation or participation will contribute to the support we provide to these brave individuals. Together, let's make a positive impact and bring strength and smiles to those who need it most.
Giving Every Day Hero ® Encouragement
Thank you all bringing Zoey her Pot of Gold last Saturday. Zoey got her wish list all fulfilled, and she is very happy. Thank you so much for the thoughtful fruit tarte, balloons, spring flowers, brother Dylan's present, and extra gift cards, the whole delivery was just so sweet, it made our day.
Thank you very much. God bless you always what a beautiful detail we have no way to thank you more than these words all very beautiful. It is a joyful moment for Jaquie because since they gave us the diagnosis our lives have changed forever and we hope that she will come out healthy
Profiles of dedicated animal shelter volunteers
Community development empowers local people to take charge of their own initiatives.
Caring for shelter pets’ physical and mental health
Working together towards common goals strengthens bonds among community members.
Creative fundraising ideas for animal shelters
Socially cohesive communities are better equipped to overcome obstacles and adapt.
Exploring the inner workings of animal shelters
It’s essential to recognize the invaluable contribution of community-led approaches.
Our Team
Get to Know Our Operations Team
Our operations team, a dedicated group of volunteers, efficiently runs Gold Rush Cure Foundation's operations across the United States.
Sandy Barker
President
Sandy is Christian's Mom, our Founding Hero and leads GRCF. Sandy has done over 29 trips to DC for childhood cancer advocacy.
Sandy Barker
President
- Phone:+1 (949) 662-3884
- Email:sandy@goldrushcure.org
Gary Barker
Vice President
Gary is Christian's Dad, our Founding Hero and leads GRCF. Gary is also Chair of the Board.
Gary Barker
Vice President
- Phone:+1 (949) 662-3884
- Email:gary@goldrushcure.org
Marci Padgett
National Operations
Marci, mother to David who fought Leukemia as a child, leads National Operations for GRCF.
Marci Padgett
National Operations
- Phone:+1 (949) 662-3884
- Email:marci@goldrushcure.org
Jeremy Bliler
Arizona Team Leader
A volunteer not directly impacted by childhood cancer, Jeremy works with the Arizona Team and GRCF Operations.
Jeremy Bliler
Arizona Team Leader
- Phone:+1 (949) 662-3884
- Email:jeremy@goldrushcure.org
Dillon Bliler
Salt Lake City Team Leader
Dillon leads the Utah/Salt Lake City region for GRCF and has done countless deliveries with compassion.
Dillon Bliler
Salt Lake City Team Leader
- Phone:+1 (949) 662-3884
- Email:dillon@goldrushcure.org
Ashley Smith
San Diego Team Leader
Ashley leads our San Diego region with experience - she has been with GRCF for years.
Ashley Smith
San Diego Team Leader
- Phone:+1 (949) 662-3884
- Email:ashley@goldrushcure.org
Kendall Barker
Donor Relations
Daughter to Sandy & Gary, Kendall helps bring GRCF donations and works to drive donor relations.
Kendall Barker
Donor Relations
- Phone:+1 (949) 662-3884
- Email:kendall@goldrushcure.org
Our Team
Meet Our Board of Directors
Our esteemed Board of Directors brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and strategic vision to guide our organization towards success.
Gary Barker
Board Chair & Board Member
Sandy Barker
Board Member
Kim Shaw
Board Member
Fred Haton
Board Member
Lynn Tadlock
Board Member & Treasurer
Leanne Oatman
Board Member
Kelli Seely
Board Member
Jeremy Bliler
Board Member
Christy Ambler
Board Member
Marci Padgett
Board Member
Lori Hicks
Board Member
Ready to Make A Difference?
Let us help connect you with the cause.
Children battling cancer need our support, and we provide you with the means to help. Join us as a RUSH partner, volunteer to meet brave young cancer heroes, or align your company with our mission.