FAQs
What is Eli Talley Foundation?
The Eli Talley Foundation is a non-profit, volunteer driven organization founded by friends and family in memory of Elijah Talley. It was because of research, access to clinical trials, and his love of music that Eli was able enjoy life for many more years than were expected. He wanted to live. He wanted to bring awareness and help find a cure. He wanted to be hope for families going through a cancer journey. He wanted to teach guitar and share his music with others. He recognized that music was healing and therapeutic. We know he would want us to grow his legacy by continuing on with the things that were so important to him.
What is the mission of the Eli Talley Foundation?
To positively impact the lives of children with cancer through the gift of music, by helping to fund important research, and assisting families on their journey through childhood cancer.
What is the small bee icon at the bottom of website pages?
Eli was a "bee-liever" in the global impact that bees and their pollination efforts have. For us, it's a special way to remember him through trinkets and sometimes the occasional honeybee. Just a friendly reminder that even if something seems small, it can have a huge impact..
Who is Eli?
Hero. Beloved son, brother and nephew. Dearest friend to so many and inspiration to others. He was the most courageous young man you might ever hope to meet. He believed in equality and social justice. He believed that bees were incredibly important. He loved to debate topics that meant something to him - and that could range from current political candidates and philosophy, to why a certain song was horrible or which was the best flavor of Hi-Chew. He loved horror flicks, all genres of music, and dim sum. Eli was a student of life and loved learning new things. He loved to cook. He sketched constantly. Music was his true core. He was a gifted musician and when he played guitar, you could feel the music radiate from his soul. Although born in Arkansas, he considered Philly his true home and was proud to share the city he loved with friends that came to visit. After a brave 14 year battle with neuroblastoma, Elijah passed away a month before his 19th birthday. His absence left a void in the lives of all who loved him. He was, and is, the epitome of what a rockstar should be in all aspects of his life.
How does the Eli Talley Foundation raise funds?
We hope to establish annual events to help us raise funds needed to meet our goals and further the mission of the Eli Talley Foundation. We welcome suggestions for fundraising opportunities, monetary and in-kind donations from individuals, groups, and corporations.
Where does the money go?
Funds raised for childhood cancer research will be directed to The Maris Lab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and to other promising childhood cancer clinical trials throughout the United States.
Funds raised to assist families with an emergent financial need during their childhood cancer journey will be allocated after referral from a childhood cancer treatment center social work department. Funds raised during lemonade stand events will go to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Travel for Care program. About the music program: It is our hope to receive referrals from pediatric oncology social work departments with requests for music experiences, music lessons or instruments. We also hope to donate money to music therapy programs at pediatric oncology centers in the United States.
How much of the money raised goes to programs and research vs. administrative costs?
Our workforce is entirely volunteer driven and we strive to keep administrative costs at a minimum. If a donation is made and it is specified to be for the music program, research, or family assistance program, 100% of the donation will be directed to raising funds according to the donor request.