Alexandria Lavin | Peoria, Illinois
President, The Yellow Bear Foundation
Adaptability is one of Alexandria Lavin’s superpowers. Although she once dreamed of becoming a pediatrician, blending science, compassion, and purpose, life steered her toward medical nonprofits. “I didn’t anticipate this path when I first set out,” writes Lavin. “But now, looking back, I see how the pieces fell into place.”
The first piece was a quest to discover the source of her infant daughter’s multiple illnesses. This revealed other pieces like finding out about Primary Immunodeficiency diseases (PI) and how other families were managing it, fundraising for medical nonprofits, and even realizing PI as the answer to her own health issues.
Lavin shares, “Overcoming the challenge of being immunocompromised requires resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of one’s body and limitations….While it can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to build a new kind of strength…rooted in self-care, self-advocacy, and learning how to thrive.”
Words of Wisdom:
“…Every ‘failure’ is a steppingstone toward figuring out what works…Being able to adapt and learn from your experiences is just as important as the initial risk itself…”
All this inspired Lavin to start her own charity, the Yellow Bear Foundation, that has raised half a million dollars to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for individuals with PI. As the President and Founder, her responsibilities include principal fundraiser, event manager, and community relations leader.
Lavin loves creating “event experiences” by combining competition with fun and fellowship such as The Screaming Pumpkin (a race through Springdale Cemetery won by being the closest to finishing at 10 pm without going over), the Fair (a cocktail party with fair games, live music, and dancing), and the Hibernation Celebration (a family friendly event held on “Rare Disease Day” at the Peoria Riverfront Museum).
Lavin has also helped raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network, OSF Healthcare, and many other charitable causes. She has served on the Peoria Historical Society’s board and coached St. Jude Catholic School’s cheerleading team. And for the past five years, she has participated in the Disney Princess Half Marathon with Miracle Makers, raising over half a million dollars for the Children’s Miracle Network.
Alexandria believes that nonprofit leaders “don’t just talk about the cause—they live it.” Kathleen Ma agrees, saying “Alexandria exemplifies the true spirit of community. Not only does Alexandria serve her own foundation but leads by example and office in other community organizations.”
On top of it all, Lavin cares for family, including husband Nick and three children, Vivienne (13), Charlotte (13), and Declan (11).
Community with a Lasting Bond:
“Many families in central Illinois have deep roots. There’s a sense of pride in maintaining and continuing local traditions, whether it's a historical landmark, local event, or the preservation of certain practices. These legacies reinforce connections between the past, present, and future, solidifying the community’s long-term bond.”