NORTHAMPTON — The board of directors of Cancer Connection has named Chelsea Sunday Kline as its new executive director.
Kline’s hiring comes as Cancer Connection, which is marking its 22nd anniversary, is poised to create and implement a new plan of strategic growth in programming, development and outreach. The nonprofit is devoted to providing a haven of strength and hope where services are free and all facing cancer are welcomed.
Kline is eager to support the staff in safely reopening to provide in-person supports for participants and their caregivers, from massage, reiki, mindfulness, and more.
“With Chelsea’s demonstrated community involvement, leadership and enthusiasm, we are so lucky to move forward with her guidance,” said Jennifer Ewers, the president of Cancer Connection’s board.
According to the American Cancer Society, a little over 1.9 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2022. Furthermore, an estimated 40 out of 100 men and 39 out of 100 women in the U.S. will develop cancer during their lifetime, so the free services offered by the Cancer Connection are very necessary.
Kline is replacing the outgoing Executive Director the Rev. Beverly Herbert. Kline joins Cancer Connection with a range of applicable professional skills and expertise. She also brings deep personal appreciation for the Center’s programming since her mother is a survivor and utilized the free services nearly 20 years ago.
Kline is a graduate of both Smith College and Harvard Divinity School and has a background as an academic program director for a local university, an interim executive director of a small non-profit, and is currently a consultant and professional life, career and transition coach. Moreover, Kline contributes a regular column to the Daily Hampshire Gazette’s Living section entitled “In the Present,” featuring content about mindfulness, gratitude, and kindness. Recently appointed to Northampton’s Human Rights Commission, Kline is the mother of three.
Cancer Connection is supported through fundraising and from sales at the Cancer Connection Thrift Shop, which sells quality, reasonably priced merchandise.
This Sunday, a benefit for Cancer Connection is back in person when the 12th Annual Western Mass Mother’s Day Half Marathon and virtual 5k takes place in Whately and Hatfield. To register and for more information: racewmass.com