About us
Mission
Sponsorship Information
Mission
Our mission is to provide tailored support to children battling cancer, their sibling(s), and their parents while remaining constant, relevant and impactful.
History
Sponsorship Information
Mission
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- SBMH was founded in 2017 and became a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization in 2019.
- Connected and supported 2 pediatric cancer warriors initially, and now supports over 400 pediatric cancer patients, their siblings and their parents.
- Creates packages and programs that offer tailored support to children battling cancer, their siblings, and their parents.
- Opened a cafe headquarters in 2022 which raised funding and was a means to integrate into the community. Closed in 2023 to become more mobile and available to the needs of the children and their families that we support.
- Connected with 3 children's hospitals in Florida and 2 children's hospitals in Missouri.
- We are licensed to operate in Florida and Missouri.
Sponsorship Information
Sponsorship Information
Sponsorship Information
47 children are diagnosed with cancer each day. Every 3 minutes, somewhere in the world a family hears the devastating words that their child has cancer. Funds raised by supporters, teams and sponsors help us provide tailored support for the children and their families as they battle through their fight with cancer.
Learn about our generous sponsors or how to become one!
Volunteer Information
Volunteer Information
Sponsorship Information
Come join the Small But Heroes Team
contact us
Volunteer Information
contact us
Phone number: 813.772.4584
Meet the team
tina downing Founder/ President /Executive Director and her story
From an early age, the founder of Small But Mighty Heroes knew she wanted to work in pediatrics, driven by an innate love and care for children. Her journey into the pediatric world began at the mere age of 16. Over the course of seven years, she navigated numerous challenges in primary care but soon realized she sought a more impactful role that could significantly change children's lives. This realization led her to pre-med, with a focus on pediatric surgery and oncology, where she dedicated her college career to research.
Her journey took a turn when she began the journey of med school and discovered she was expecting her second child. Embracing motherhood, she stepped back from her medical pursuits but found her passion for children had only intensified.
2017 was a pivotal year, bringing profound clarity and a renewed sense of purpose. The founder's life was profoundly touched by meeting Blake, a young boy with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia who tragically passed away at the age of 2. The image of Blake's lifeless body in his parents' arms was heart-wrenching. It felt as if she were holding her own son, making the reality of his loss even more devastating. It fueled a deep commitment to advocacy and the pursuit of less toxic treatments and cures for childhood cancer.
The founder's mission was further strengthened by another young warrior, Ian, diagnosed with DIPG, an inoperable brain tumor. Against the odds, Ian continues to thrive, and his remarkable journey has become a beacon of hope and a focal point for understanding why outcomes can vary so significantly.
Throughout her journey, the founder has been asked how she endures these emotional stories and invest so deeply in children she does not know. Her answer is simple: empathy and a belief that every child deserves a chance, love, and a voice. She has always felt a profound connection to the struggles of others and is driven by the conviction that no child should have to fight for their life alone.
Small But Mighty Heroes tirelessly brings the community together, embodying the belief that "It takes a village, and no child fights alone."
Carla Patchin Vice President/ Fundraising director
Carla brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our Board of Directors. She is a compassionate warrior, standing shoulder to shoulder with Small But Mighty Heroes, Carla knows no stranger, only potential allies in our mission to make a difference in the lives of children and families battling childhood cancer.
Her journey with Small But Mighty Heroes began when she stepped onto the fundraising committee during the electrifying Dancing For Heroes event. As she witnessed the dedication and passion of those involved, Carla was inspired to join forces with the organization, driven by a desire to support the hundreds of children receiving tailored assistance.
In every task she undertakes, Carla brings with her a relentless commitment to excellence and a heart overflowing with empathy. Carla is an indispensable member of the community—a beacon of hope and compassion in our village.
Samuel Sklar Medical research assistant
Samuel Sklar has joined Small But Mighty Heroes to help focus on medical research for pediatric patients. Samuel is a future medical student. His hobbies include gardening, reading, and volunteering his time to help others. Samuel has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in Medical Sciences. He is excited to be starting medical school this upcoming August. He plans to use his medical education to bring awareness and change. Samuel joined Small But Mighty Heroes after attending one of our fantastic charity events. Everyone involved was incredibly kind and passionate about making a difference in our cause. He is so grateful that he has been able to join this exceptional organization and help make a dent in the impact of pediatric cancer.
Alexsis Bubel Executive Assistant
She is a wife, mom of two girls (7 and 3) and a boy dog mom to a golden retriever and yellow lab. Alexsis and her husband also own a Collectible Card small business selling sports and game cards in their eBay store and expo shows. Her educational background consists of early education, psychology and business administration. She has always been an advocate of giving back to the community and lending a helping hand when possible. It is in her nature to have compassion and dedication to any cause that involves children specifically.
Alexsis first learned about Small But Mighty Heroes last year during Girl Scout cookie season. Her daughter's troop nominated us as their Hometown Hero and donated cookie boxes that assisted with options for the organization. Since then, Alexsis and her family have enjoyed the events that they have been able to attend. She has also shared via multiple social channels the mission of SBMH and the request for any type of support. Alexsis and her husband also advertise to their customers that Small But Mighty Heroes is their sole nonprofit organization in hopes to increase visibility and knowledge.
Alexsis decided to join SBMH on a more direct level due to knowing that she can make a difference and put her abilities and resources to better use on a daily basis and hands-on collaboration. She is confident that SBMH will grow in the right direction under a brilliant leader such as Tina and with the rest of the team coming together to build the village needed for the children and their families in need of this prominent organization. Alexsis is honored to be on this team consisting of such caring and life changing advocates.
news coverage and articles
How to Support Families Facing Pediatric Cancer - Tina Downing- PODCAST
Canvas Rebel Magazine Article 03.21.24
Foamstravaganza party benefits kids fighting cancer
Small But Mighty Heroes works to lift spirits of kids fighting cancer
Small But Mighty Heroes: Empowering Childhood Cancer Warriors And Families
‘Small But Mighty Heroes supports kids and families through cancer battle
‘Small But Mighty Heroes’: Valrico bistro, nonprofit giving back to pediatric cancer patients
Community Highlights: Meet Tina Downing of Small but Mighty Heroes
First Foamstravaganza Community Event Will Support Children’s Cancer Charity
Spreading Childhood Cancer Awareness One Drink At A Time
Learn the 'WHY' behind SBMH and learn about the Founder and Executive Director.
Rising Stars: Meet Tina Downing
Learn the 'WHY' behind SBMH and learn about the Founder and Executive Director.
Dancing For Heroes - Kansas City 2025
🌟 Bringing Magic to Life 🌟
Join us for an enchanted evening where dreams come alive, and dancers embrace their fantasies to perform in honor of our true heroes — children battling cancer.
Prepare to be captivated by the magic of fairytales, as each step and spin on the dance floor becomes a tribute to courage, hope, and resilience.
Help us make this an unforgettable night filled with wonder, joy, and heartfelt moments.
Save the Date
October 11,2025
Dress to enchant, as we dance to make a difference.