About
About
"Outstanding people have one thing in common: An absolute sense of mission" - Zig Ziglar
OurMission & Values
Children’s Liver Association for Support Services is an all volunteer group.C.L.A.S.S. was founded out of the recognized need for an organization dedicated to addressing the emotional, educational and financial needs of families with children affected by liver disease and transplantation.
The date June 5, 1994 marked the incorporation of the Children’s Liver Association for Support Services known as C.L.A.S.S. The Sumner’s family den became the organization’s headquarters. That November, the first C.L.A.S.S. newsletter, edited by Mark, was distributed. It was from this pivotal time that C.L.A.S.S. grew to become the multi-faceted organization that it is today.
Founders — Mark and Diane Sumner
Early in his infancy Chris Sumner seemed, by all appearances, to be a healthy baby boy. Then at 6 weeks of age, a doctor noticed that Chris was jaundiced–an observation that forever changed the lives of Chris’ parents, Mark and Diane Sumner.
Chris was quickly taken to the hospital to have blood drawn for testing. That evening the Sumner’s’ pediatrician wanted to see Chris immediately. The visit resulted in the ordering of more blood work and, within an hour, Chris was admitted to Stanford University Medical Center... Read more about the Sumner Family's Journey
Read more about the Sumner Family's Journey
The primary goals of C.L.A.S.S. are to:
- Provide and distribute educational materials about pediatric liver disease.
- Provide a support network for families of children with liver disease via telephone hotline, newsletters and educational seminars.
- Provide direct financial assistance to families in need directly related to their child's liver disease.
- Fund seed grants for research into causes, diagnosis, detection, treatment and prevention of pediatric liver diseases.
- Sponsor educational seminars on medial and social issues regarding liver disease.
- Increase public awareness about the importance of organ donation.
- Solicit funds from private and public sources, and administer and disburse such funds to further our mission.
Presidents - Stephan and Tamara Circle
Tamara and Stephan Circle have been happily married for almost 6 years and have been together for over 10 years. Stephan is currently employed with The American Red Cross and serves as an Account Representative for the Greater Pittsburgh Area. Tamara is the Chief Operating Officer for Hobby Prodigy, Pittsburgh’s first DIY Craft Studio. They have two loving and energetic little boys; Jackson (4) and Aiden (9). When Jackson was born on July 1st, 2014 their lives changed forever… Read more about the Circle Family's Journey
Our Board
The members of our board of directors are thought leaders who have made a significant contribution to our society. Each and every one of them brings a unique set of skills and expertise to our organization.
Scientific Advisory Board
The Scientific Advisory Board has been established to advise the organization on medically related issues regarding pediatric liver disease and transplantation.
Advisory Board
Contact Info
P.O. Box 186
Monaca, Pa 15061
United States
Phone: (724) 581-5527
Email: classkidscares@gmail.com