The Future of Giving: Empowering Young Philanthropists to Accelerate a Cure for Lymphoma

The Lymphoma Research Foundation is nothing without its philanthropic supporters. For three decades, we have built a community rooted in research and strengthened by compassion and care, and our dedicated donors have been the driving force behind it all. While we honor our past, we’re also laser-focused on the future. The next chapter of our mission will be written by new voices, particularly the rising generation of young philanthropists who are eager to accelerate the path to a cure.

According to a study by Bank of America Private Bank, 88% of younger donors (ages 21-43) feel their generation is prepared to assume philanthropic leadership and share their parents’ commitment to giving back. For the Foundation, engaging these emerging leaders is not only timely—it’s essential to ensuring that the next 30 years are just as transformative as the last. Through programs like the Collegiate Champion Program, endurance events, volunteer networks, and the Emerging Philanthropists Gala, the Foundation is creating meaningful pathways for young people to get involved—offering emerging leaders the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, advocacy, and mission-driven service, all while connecting with a cause that often holds deep personal relevance.

So, who are these future leaders of philanthropy— and what inspires their dedication to the Lymphoma Research Foundation? Meet three remarkable young changemakers who are helping to shape the next era of impact.

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Avery Hoffman
Emerging Philanthropists Gala

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do outside of your involvement with the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

Professionally I am an investor at Blackstone and in my free time, I love being outside as much as possible. I enjoy skiing, biking, swimming, and most recently triathlons and Ironman competitions – the more I can get outside and be active, the better.

In what capacity have you been involved with the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

In 2023, I gave a speech at the Lymphoma Research Foundation’s Annual Gala in honor of my former doctor, and Foundation Scientific Advisory Board member, Kara Kelly, MD, who was being honored. Since then, I have been a part of two of the Foundation’s Emerging Philanthropists Galas, and now serve on the committee for that event and am in the process of helping to plan this year’s event on October 24, 2025.

What inspired you to get involved in philanthropy, especially in support of the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

In 2009, when I was 10 years old, I was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma and treated with intensive chemotherapy at Columbia University Medical Center. I’ll always feel immense gratitude toward the doctors and nurses who not only treated me but also supported me emotionally. From a young age, I wanted to give back.

As a child, I spoke at fundraisers to put a face to childhood cancer—because when people see a survivor, they truly understand how deeply cancer affects families and communities. Years later, I connected with the Lymphoma Research Foundation and was so impressed by the organization’s impact and professionalism. Their events raise significant funds and awareness, and I’m honored to contribute.

Why do you believe it’s important for young philanthropists to take an active role in driving change for causes such as the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

Young people may not have the financial means to give large donations, but they have broad networks. Awareness is half the battle in addressing cancer, and tapping into those networks can make a real difference. For me, that’s meant inviting friends and colleagues to Foundation events and encouraging them to share the cause with their circles.

What does being a part of the fight to find a cure for lymphoma mean to you personally?

For me, it feels like a responsibility. I was fortunate to benefit from the treatments and research funded by those who came before me. Giving back is my way of honoring that and supporting the community that saved my life.

How have you used your platform—whether social, professional, or personal—to raise awareness or funds for lymphoma?

I’ve leaned on my networks—friends who knew me during treatment, classmates, colleagues—to spread the word. I’ve invited dozens of people to the Emerging Philanthropist Gala, organized email updates, and connected people to other Foundation events. It’s about creating ripple effects of awareness.

I was fortunate to benefit from the treatments and research funded by those who came before me. Giving back is my way of honoring that and supporting the community that saved my life.

What advice would you give to other young people who want to make a difference but aren’t sure where to start?

Start small. Attend one event, send one email, or make one phone call. Those small actions snowball into a larger impact. One introduction leads to more connections, and before you know it, you’ve built momentum that truly helps the cause.

In your opinion, what does the future of philanthropy look like?

I think philanthropy will continue to evolve with the way people communicate. Social media, especially, is a powerful tool for spreading awareness, particularly for causes like cancer, where seeing reality is essential to understanding it. While giving may look different than it did 20 years ago, I’m optimistic it will help us reach an even larger audience and grow the Foundation’s impact.

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Lexie Lander
TCS New York City Marathon

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do outside of your involvement with the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

I’m originally from St. Louis, Missouri, and grew up surrounded by the most supportive family and friends I could ask for. I studied nursing at the University of Kansas and, about a year ago, moved to Dallas with a group of close friends to begin my career as a nurse.

Outside of work, I love to stay active and try new things. I recently joined a sailing club near my apartment. I play guitar, love to cook, and spend time with friends and family. I always seem to be adding new hobbies to the list!

In what capacity have you been involved with the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

When I started working in oncology, I quickly became invested in my patients’ lives—it’s hard not to when you spend so much time with them. Around the same time, my sister suggested I run the New York City Marathon and connect it with a cause that mattered to me. I did some research, found the Lymphoma Research Foundation, and immediately knew it was the right fit.

Reaching out to the Foundation felt like a full-circle moment, especially when I saw that the Foundation had highlighted some of the very patients I’d cared for. That connection made my involvement feel even more personal and meaningful.

What inspired you to get involved in philanthropy, especially in support of the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

Philanthropy has always been a part of my life. My mom started her own nonprofit, and watching her build that organization instilled in me and my sisters the importance of giving back whenever possible. I really believe the best way to feel good about yourself is to help others feel good, too. That philosophy is part of why I became a nurse and why I try to bring light and compassion into everything I do.

Why do you believe it’s important for young philanthropists to take an active role in driving change for causes such as the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

Young people have an incredible platform today through social media and digital networks. We have unique ways to connect and engage with one another – sometimes in ways that older generations can’t. Getting involved early builds awareness, inspires others to join, and ensures that the next generation is ready to carry these causes forward.

What does being a part of the fight to find a cure for lymphoma mean to you personally?

For me, it’s about giving patients a second chance at life. As a nurse, I spend weeks caring for people who are hospitalized, and I get to know not only them but their families, too. At the end of my shift, I get to go home—but they don’t. Helping to find a cure means giving them the chance to go back to their lives, their families, and their passions. That perspective motivates me every day.

How have you used your platform—whether social, professional, or personal—to raise awareness or funds for lymphoma?

I’ve relied mostly on personal connections. Word of mouth has been huge—my parents have shared my fundraising efforts with their friends, and my patients sometimes hear about the marathon through conversations we have. I’ve also posted occasionally on Instagram, but for me, the most meaningful support has come from direct conversations and the encouragement of family and friends.

I really believe the best way to feel good about yourself is to help others feel good, too. That philosophy is part of why I became a nurse and why I try to bring light and compassion into everything I do.

What advice would you give to other young people who want to make a difference but aren’t sure where to start?

Find something you’re passionate about—something that gives you joy—and follow that. Passion is what drives commitment. Don’t be afraid to take risks or try something that scares you. Running 26.2 miles was never on my radar until recently, but it’s taught me how rewarding it can be to step outside your comfort zone. Small steps can lead to a big impact.

In your opinion, what does the future of philanthropy look like?

I think the future is bright. Social media and technology give us tools to reach people in ways that weren’t possible even 15 years ago, when my mom started her nonprofit. Now, organizations can expand their reach, attract supporters from across the world, and grow in incredible ways. I see philanthropy becoming even more connected, accessible, and impactful in the years ahead.

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Adam Hammock
Rey Diaz Memorial Golf Tournament

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do outside of your involvement with the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

I am from Athens, Georgia, and am the CEO of iS3 Tech Services. iS3 Tech Services is a security systems supplier offering the design and implementation of security systems to clients throughout the southern US.

In what capacity have you been involved with the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

In March of 2025, I helped host the inaugural Rey Diaz Memorial Golf Tournament. This charity golf tournament was created through the Lymphoma Research Foundation’s Fundraise Your Way program, which allows individuals to host unique fundraising events to support the Foundation’s mission. Me along with about ten others, worked on the fundraiser for about a year, and ultimately, we had 147 golfers registered and were able to raise more than $20,000 to support the Foundation.

What inspired you to get involved in philanthropy, especially in support of the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

For me, getting involved was deeply personal. My friend Rey Diaz was diagnosed with lymphoma and succumbed suddenly to the disease in December 2023. We wanted to host this golf tournament to bring together friends, family, and the community to celebrate Rey’s legacy and support a great cause. Rey had an incredible impact on us all, and I was proud to be able to honor him by giving back to the Foundation and furthering their mission to eradicate this cancer.

Why do you believe it’s important for young philanthropists to take an active role in driving change for causes such as the Lymphoma Research Foundation?

I believe it’s essential for young philanthropists to get involved because we bring energy, fresh ideas, and a unique perspective. Younger people naturally tend to challenge the status quo and find new ways to innovate. For a cause like the Lymphoma Research Foundation,
that matters a lot. We can connect with groups that older generations might not reach — whether that’s through new funding sources, creative ways to spread awareness, or just the networks we move in.

And honestly, it’s not just about money. It’s about showing up, using our voices, and committing early. When young people step up, we create momentum and inspire others to get involved, too. The fight against lymphoma needs that urgency and innovation, and I believe our generation can help drive both.

What does being a part of the fight to find a cure for lymphoma mean to you personally?

I was honored to play a part in helping to accelerate cures for lymphoma. My goal was to raise funds and awareness for the Foundation so that scientists are able to conduct more research to help patients and their loved ones better navigate lymphoma, and ultimately, one day cure it. I think the more we can all do to move the needle, the better.

How have you used your platform—whether social, professional, or personal—to raise awareness or funds for lymphoma?

I am on a board of over 140 people, so I began by reaching out to my professional network to ask people to get involved in the tournament, whether by donating, sponsoring, or actually golfing. We were also lucky to have a very involved planning committee, so we were all able to reach out to our individual networks – including family, friends, colleagues, business connections – to garner support for the event.

When young people step up, we create momentum and inspire others to get involved, too. The fight against lymphoma needs that urgency and innovation, and I believe our generation can help drive both.

What advice would you give to other young people who want to make a difference but aren’t sure where to start?

Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good and great. Fundraising is all about starting somewhere and doing the best you can along the way. As someone who is not a salesperson, I was concerned about my ability to sell a lot of sponsorships. But once I got out there and started networking and pushing it a little bit, I was just surprised at how many of them really came through.

My other advice is don’t be afraid or shy to remind people about your fundraiser. If somebody has committed to getting involved, it is ok to push them a little bit and provide them with friendly reminders.

In your opinion, what does the future of philanthropy look like?

I hope that the younger generation, like me, is encouraged and enthusiastic about getting involved. As the baton passes on to us, I hope that we can build upon the success of the fundraisers who came before us and ultimately raise more funds for causes like the Lymphoma Research Foundation.