BEDFORD, OH — Northeastern Ohio children with severe medical conditions are considered “Gems” at Treasure Each Moment, a non-profit based in Bedford, Ohio.
The pirate-themed organization, founded by Jes Zelasko, helps “make the kids feel better” by planning special “quests” based on each Gem’s age and interests, Zelasko notes. Outings may include trips to the zoo, movies or sporting events. Each child receives a wooden treasure chest at the end of the quest to help them remember the day.
Treasure Each Moment also offers group quests to give “the kids a chance to interact with each other and the parents an opportunity to relax while their kids are just being kids,” the website notes.
“We are hoping to take the kids to the movie night in Bedford.” ~ Jes Zelasko, Founder, Treasure Each Moment & Marvelous Miracles
Such monthly activities help children feel that, despite what they may be dealing with, “they can do whatever they want,” Zelasko says.
For example, a 3-year-old Gem loves Bon Jovi.
“He knows every word to every song.” ~ Jes Zelasko, Founder, Treasure Each Moment & Marvelous Miracles
So she is working with a tribute group to take him to a concert where the band will dedicate a song to him.
You Can Help
Those wanting to support the organization can volunteer, sponsor a quest or serve on its board. And the group is always looking for new Gems between the ages of three months to 17 years.
Zelasko, who chose the pirate theme based on her fondness for Johnny Depp and his films, has been running Treasure Each Moment for about 14 years. Upcoming fundraising plans include a virtual walk in November and a Giving Tuesday campaign.
Marvelous Miracles also supports kids and families
Zelasko is also president of Marvelous Miracles for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Believing that childhood cancer lacks sufficient funding, she began this organization about three years ago. Its goal is to raise $1.7 million, enough to provide a day’s care to St. Jude patients.
As the website notes, the objective of Marvelous Miracles is “to see childhood cancer gone for good.”
Thus, the business works to connect families who are battling cancer with the life-supporting services at St. Jude.
Planned events include participation in the St. Jude Walk on September 27 and a A Giving Tuesday fundraiser. This organization also welcomes donations, volunteers and board members.
“My passion for this work comes from some of my personal struggles in dealing with Cerebral Palsy and some of the issues that I deal with. Because of this I feel that I can relate to these children in a special way.” ~ Jes Zelasko, Founder, Treasure Each Moment & Marvelous Miracles
Treasure Each Moment
Bedford, Ohio
(440) 317-5497
Marvelous Miracles for St. Jude
Bedford, Ohio
(440) 317-5497
Mon-Fri, 9am – 5pm
