Grief often reshapes lives—but in Cheryl Colleluori’s case, it became the driving force behind a movement. As president of the HEADstrong Foundation, she channeled personal tragedy into a national mission, transforming heartbreak into hope for thousands of families affected by cancer. Her leadership is not born from conventional entrepreneurship, but from a deeply human need to make a difference. That passion earned her recognition as a Titan 100 Honoree.
Colleluori’s journey began with the loss of her son, Nicholas, who passed away from cancer at just 21 years old. In his final days, he expressed a wish to improve the experience of others facing similar battles. From that moment, Colleluori became the relentless force behind HEADstrong Foundation—an organization dedicated to offering financial, emotional and residential support to cancer patients and their families. What started as a tribute grew into a national nonprofit with a reputation for compassion and consistency.
Her ability to operationalize empathy has made HEADstrong Foundation uniquely effective. Colleluori recognized that beyond treatment, families endure crushing costs, logistical hurdles and emotional isolation. She responded by building programs that offer free housing near hospitals, peer support groups and emergency financial assistance. Under her guidance, the organization has supported over 25,000 patients nationwide, providing millions in aid without ever losing the personal touch that defines its mission.
Colleluori’s impact is rooted in her refusal to see obstacles as deterrents. She expanded the foundation’s presence through grassroots efforts and strategic partnerships, never compromising on integrity or transparency. Every initiative, from the development of Nick’s House—free lodging for families in crisis—to awareness campaigns across professional sports leagues, is infused with authenticity. She leads with purpose, never forgetting the promise she made at her son’s bedside.
Among her many accomplishments, Colleluori takes the most pride in sustaining HEADstrong Foundation’s momentum while honoring its origin. Unlike many nonprofits that waver after initial growth, she has built an enduring infrastructure supported by loyal donors, dedicated staff and a clear vision. Her strategic leadership has positioned the foundation to respond to needs in real time, offering solutions that evolve with the ever-changing healthcare landscape.
HEADstrong Foundation’s vision for the future is expansive. Colleluori plans to increase the number of residential facilities nationwide, deepen partnerships with hospitals and launch new services aimed at supporting caregivers. Her strategy includes measurable impact goals and an emphasis on community-based engagement, ensuring that the foundation remains both responsive and relevant.
What sets Colleluori apart is not only what she’s built but how she’s lived through it—balancing grief and growth, sorrow and service. She exemplifies a rare form of leadership that turns pain into purpose, creating a legacy rooted in love and action. In the realm of nonprofit innovation, she stands as a model of resilience and an enduring reminder that from unimaginable loss can rise extraordinary strength.
