Community • Connection • Collaboration

Here’s the reality: many families don’t trust the pharmaceutical industry, and we understand why. At the same time, many families aren’t even aware of clinical trials, while those who are know just how essential clinical research is.

The challenge is that too often, decisions are made without the stories in the room—without the names and faces behind the data. We’re here to change that.

That’s why we’re inviting the industry into a different kind of conversation—solution focused, honest, and built as an open forum where we can better understand each other’s worlds. Families have trusted us with their experiences, and we’re bringing that trust to the table with intention. We’re bringing the kids behind the statistics, the parents behind the paperwork, and the moments that don’t fit neatly into a chart. We’ll keep saying their names, because the people shaping research should know exactly who they’re fighting for.

That’s the heartbeat of the Patchwork Collective: better options, more time, and kids who deserve so much more.

The Patchwork Collective (PWC) is a community of pediatric advocacy nonprofit organizations united by the belief that they are stronger together. As a collaborative force, the PWC works to elevate awareness for the often overlooked pediatric population and strengthen the presence of pediatric advocacy. Founded by Brian Burkhardt (Oliver Patch Project) and Andy Shepperd (Project Outrun), the PWC was built on the belief that meaningful progress happens through partnership. Today, it continues to grow as more organizations embrace a shared, solution oriented mindset—committed to collaboration, visibility, and positive change for children and families.