The Life Ring Foundation

The Life Ring Foundation is a 501{c}3 public charity, operating with a fraction of the administrative and infrastructure expenses of other comparable public charities. We pride ourselves on constructing the shortest distances possible between means and needs. The Life Ring Foundation was founded by Jessica and Kelly Woolwine in 2005, out of genuine passion to make Southwest Virginia a happier and healthier place. Through journey and personal experience, the primary focus of the foundation today, is the awareness, care, cure, and treatment of childhood cancer and blood diseases. Our Campaign: Fighting Kids Cancer Fighting Kids’ Cancer is Life Ring Foundation’s five-year initiative to transform the state of care for children diagnosed with cancer in Southwest Virginia. 100% of the money raised will be used to add desperately needed resources to what will be the new pediatric cancer treatment center in Roanoke Valley. Our goal is to change the narrative in which kids have to leave Roanoke to receive treatment to one that transforms our region as a hub for families to move to receive proper care. We can no longer stand for loss of our children’s lives to lack of resources. Our Goal We have taken on the very ambitious goal of attempting to raise $20,000,000 for the building and resourcing of a new state-of-the-art pediatric oncology & hematology treatment center in an unprecedented partnership with Carilion Clinic. Our Mission: The Life Ring Foundation is rooted first and foremost in a true love for southwest Virginia. "We want to give back to the place that helped shape us into who we are today. We believe there is no wiser investment than to the health and well-being of the next generation. Stronger, healthier and happier citizens will help us make sure that our Valley is a place we will be proud of for generations to come.” - Jessica & Kelly Woolwine