Our Story: Healing Spaces with National Impact

Designing Dreams is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that transforms the bedrooms of children actively fighting cancer, creating joyful, personalized spaces where they can rest, heal, and just be kids. We work closely with hospital child life specialists and social workers, experts who know their patients best, to identify children who would benefit from extra comfort and care at home. Whether a child is facing extended time in isolation, mobility challenges, relapse, or financial hardship, these trusted hospital partners help us reach those who need a healing space the most. Every room is designed by a professional interior designer and is a reflection of that child’s personality, interests, and strength, offering a space of peace, play, and possibility during a difficult time.

How It Began
Designing Dreams was started in 2013 in Minnesota when college student Lauren Curwick, her mother Mardel (an interior designer), and Lauren’s college friends began fundraising for the cause. Together, they completed a very special bedroom transformation in Beaver Dam, WI. Over our first decade, under the leadership of a Wisconsin Board of Directors, we transformed dozens of bedrooms in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Nebraska, bringing hope and healing to children during their most vulnerable moments. By the end of 2022, our Midwest operations were paused due to limited local funding. However, our commitment to the region remains unwavering, and we are working toward a strategic relaunch when resources align.

‍Where We Are Now
Beginning in 2020, under the leadership of Kelly O'Donnell and with guidance from a dedicated Board of Advisors, Designing Dreams began laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability and national expansion. Kelly initially served as Executive Director in the Midwest before transitioning to CEO of the national parent organization, Designing Dreams USA.
‍
In 2022, National Board members Danny Beck and Reena Desai, alongside Kelly, began spearheading an organizational restructure, securing new funding, and developing scalable systems to lay the foundation for national growth.
‍
In 2023, Designing Dreams launched a chapter-based model under the leadership of the national parent organization, Designing Dreams USA. This structure enables responsible, mission-aligned expansion, while staying true to what matters most: creating joyful, healing spaces for children fighting cancer.‍

‍San Diego: Our National Pilot Chapter
San Diego became the first chapter launched under the leadership of Designing Dreams USA, with the steadfast support of the National Board of Directors.

This chapter is powered by an incredible community of support, including a passionate event planning committee, generous corporate sponsors, individual donors, and local businesses who believe deeply in our mission. Our impact in San Diego is amplified by our partnership with Rady Children’s Hospital, which connects us to children in need of healing spaces. Each bedroom transformation is brought to life by exceptionally talented local interior designers, whose creativity, compassion, and dedication turn ordinary rooms into magical, restorative spaces tailored to each child’s unique personality and needs.

San Diego serves as both a pilot model for future expansion and a vibrant example of what’s possible when national vision meets local heart. The chapter continues to be governed by the National Board and is expected to become an independently run chapter in 2026.

‍Bring Designing Dreams to Your Community
Are you passionate about childhood cancer, interior design, or nonprofit leadership? Designing Dreams USA offers a supported pathway to open  a chapter in your area. Through our structured franchise model, you’ll receive:
‍
✅ A proven blueprint for launching and sustaining your chapter
✅ Legal, financial, and operational guidance
✅ A mission-driven bedroom transformation model
✅ Access to branding, training, and one-on-one support from the national team
‍
📧 Ready to make a lasting impact? Contact Kelly O'Donnell at kelly@designingdreamsusa.org

‍Our Vision‍
A child’s bedroom is often where they spend the most time during cancer treatment, resting between appointments, recovering from procedures, or simply trying to feel like a kid again. We exist to make that space beautiful, safe, and filled with play. With your support, Designing Dreams is building a national movement of healing and hope for children fighting cancer.