About Us

The Lonon Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children impacted by

a caregiver’s cancer diagnosis. TLF serves children ages 0-17.

Job Summary

The Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) provides emotional support, developmentally

appropriate education, and coping interventions to children experiencing a caregiver’s cancer

diagnosis or cancer-related death. Through therapeutic play, preparation, and evidence-based

interventions, this role supports children and families in building resilience and navigating

complex emotions.

This role works closely with an administrative team and will provide light logistical support,

including assisting with shipping materials, utilizing storage space, and participating in 5-6 in

person events per year.

Responsibilities

• Provide developmentally appropriate emotional support to children impacted by a

caregiver’s cancer diagnosis or bereavement

• Conduct assessments of children’s emotional, developmental, and coping needs to

inform individualized interventions

• Implement therapeutic play, medical play, expressive activities, and coping strategies to

support adjustment and understanding

• Offer education and preparation to children related to illness, treatment, transitions (e.g.,

hospitalization, hospice), and grief

• Support children and families during UPLIFT programming (virtual and in-person)

through direct interaction and facilitation of activities

• Foster safe, supportive environments where children can express feelings, ask

questions, and process experiences

• Provide guidance to caregivers on how to support their children’s emotional needs and

coping

• Utilize trauma-informed and family-centered care approaches in all interactions
• Maintain accurate data and documentation, including tracking assessments,

interventions, and all interactions with children and families in a timely and confidential

manner

• Collaborate with families to ensure interventions are culturally sensitive and aligned with

family values and needs

Additional Support Responsibilities (as needed):

• Collaborate with administrative staff to prepare and ship program materials and coping

boxes

• Assist with organization and use of storage unit inventory

Characteristics of a Successful Candidate

• Strong understanding of child development, grief, and trauma
• Ability to build trusting relationships with children and families
• Skilled in therapeutic play and emotional expression techniques
• Empathetic, adaptable, and emotionally attuned
• Strong verbal communication skills, especially with children of varying developmental

levels

• Passionate about supporting children through serious illness and loss

Bachelor’s Degree in child life, child development, psychology, or related field

Master’s Degree in Child Life or related field preferred

Must maintain Child Life Certification

Minimum of 1 year of experience supporting children and families in stressful or medical

environments

About The Lonon Foundation

At The Lonon Foundation, we understand that a cancer diagnosis impacts an entire family. Children who have a parent or caregiver with cancer often experience increased anxiety, stress, and feelings of loneliness. Through our free resources we promote coping and resilience, helping children find comfort, heal, and grow from their shared experiences.

Connections working at The Lonon Foundation