2025 Impact Report

40-LOVE!

As we look back on an extraordinary year, our hearts are full. The Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund continues to be powered by a community whose generosity, passion, and belief in our mission make everything possible. In 2025, we celebrated a milestone four decades in the making—our 40th Anniversary —and thanks to you, it became one of the most impactful years in our history.


Together, we raised more than $640,000 to advance pediatric cancer research initiatives. In December, we proudly presented a $435,000 gift to Children’s Minnesota supporting groundbreaking work in rare cancer discovery, rehabilitation, and survivorship care. These dollars translate directly into answers, hope, and healthier futures for children and families here at home around the world.


This year also marked important transitions and growth within our organization. We welcomed Lisa Mushett as our first Executive Director and named long-time player and supporter Matt Narr as our new Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund Board President. We were also thrilled to add Rachel LaTour and Tobias Wernet to our Board of Directors—leaders whose energy, expertise, and commitment strengthen our mission. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kevin Werwie and Nancy Jacobson for their years of dedicated service and leadership; their commitment helped build the strong foundation we stand on today, and are grateful they will continue to serve in an Emeritus capacity. 


Behind the scenes, we strengthened our internal operations to better serve our growing organization and mission for decades to come. With a new website (ptacf.org), an updated CRM, and enhanced accounting practices, we are building a more efficient, transparent, and donor‑centered organization—one that honors your trust and maximizes your impact.


We also expanded our community engagement with additional events that brought people together in meaningful ways. The inaugural Spring Fling NTRP Tournament hosted by Swing City Racket Sports created a new avenue for supporters to connect with our mission. Our Game, Set, Cure Luncheon highlighted our unique partnership with Children’s Minnesota and showcased Pine Tree-funded research that is driving progress in rare cancer research initiatives in hopes of one day finding a cure. And of course, the Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic once again delivered an unforgettable weekend of tennis, camaraderie, and purpose—made possible by our incredible players, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and partners.


Through every event, every gift, and every act of kindness, you helped make 2025 a year defined by generosity, momentum, and hope.Your belief in our mission fuels research that is saving lives today and shaping the future of pediatric cancer care for generations to come.


Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the power of community, and for helping us move closer to the day we can proudly say: Game. Set. Cure.


With gratitude,

Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund Board of Directors

Our Impact: By The Numbers

  • $640,000 raised to advance pediatric cancer research
  • Another $60,000 of in-kind donations secured
  • $435,000 gifted to Children’s Minnesota
  • 26 sponsors strengthened our mission including new partners Pelco Construction, Summit Orthopedic, Swing City Racquet Sports and the Racquet Sports Professionals Association
  • # of donors up 5.6% to 1,704 in 2025
  • Annual Average Giving Per Donor Up 13.31% from $316.28 to $358.39/person
  • Average Gift Per Donor up 19.3% from from $226.27 to $269.86
  • Rate of Growth in Giving Up 254.50% to 19.63%


Our Impact: Research Initiatives

In 2025, Pine Tree–funded research continued to drive global progress in pediatric cancer care locally in Minnesota and around the world. 

  • 1,800 patients and families are now enrolled in the PPB/DICER1 and OTST Registries, representing 600 institutions across 66 countries
  • A record 158 new enrollments in 2025
  • Two new research initiatives launched through the $1 million Hematology, Oncology Point of Care Through Survivorship Research Endowment
  • The inaugural DICER1 Symposium & Family Meeting brought together over 200 physicians, patients, and families from around the world to share updates on surveillance and testing
  • ARAR2331, the first-ever prospective PPB clinical trial, was activated in March and is now open at 40 centers
  • Pine Tree–supported research now includes over 50 global collaborators, including the University of Minnesota, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, NIH, Perth Children’s Hospital, and Beijing Children’s Hospital among others
  • Major discoveries regarding ovarian juvenile granulosa cell tumors in children were made
  • Since 2016, the PPB/DICER1 and OTST Registries have collected over 1,900 biomarker samples, now being analyzed to determine if DICER1 circulating tumor DNA can serve as a blood-based biomarker for early tumor detection

These milestones reflect the power of sustained investment in research—and the global reach of Pine Tree’s mission to fuel discovery and improve outcomes for kids with cancer.

Our Impact: Hematology, Oncology Point of Care Through Survivorship Research Endowment

In 2025, the first two research projects funded through the Hematology, Oncology Point of Care Through Survivorship Research Endowment officially launched—marking an exciting beginning to a long‑term investment in improving care for children and adolescents facing cancer.


Project 1: Bone Health in Young Adult Survivors of High-Risk Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Led by Julia Gourde, APRN, CNP, CPON, this study focuses on improving long‑term health outcomes for adolescents and young adults (AYA) diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). By examining bone health trajectories after treatment, Julia’s work seeks to identify patterns of bone density loss and the risk factors that contribute to it. These insights have the potential to guide earlier screening, shape prevention strategies, and inform targeted interventions—ultimately reducing long‑term complications and improving quality of life for a growing and vulnerable survivor population.


Project 2: Effectiveness of Handheld Photobiomodulation Therapy

The second project, led by Ana Brown, BSN, RN, CPHON, CCRP, explores the feasibility and effectiveness of handheld photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for treating oral mucositis—a painful and common side effect that can disrupt nutrition, treatment adherence, and overall well‑being in pediatric oncology patients. By testing a portable, patient‑centered device that can be used in both outpatient and home settings, this study aims to expand access to symptom relief while reducing treatment burden for children and families.


These inaugural projects reflect the very heart of the endowment’s purpose: empowering nurses and advanced practice providers to lead innovative, patient‑centered research that improves care at every stage of the cancer journey. Their work is already laying the foundation for stronger survivorship, better symptom management, and more compassionate care for kids with cancer—today and for years to come.

Our  Impact: Volunteers & Service

Volunteers are the heartbeat of the Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund. With the exception of our Executive Director, every person who serves this organization does so as a volunteer—sharing their time, talent, and passion to advance our mission.


In 2025, more than 300 volunteers contributed over 2,000 hours to Pine Tree through board service, committee leadership, and event support. Their dedication fuels every program, every event, and every dollar raised for pediatric cancer research.


One of our most inspiring initiatives, the Volunteer Give Back Program, celebrated its fourth year with remarkable growth. This program continues to strengthen our connection to the tennis community while empowering young athletes to make a meaningful difference. Twenty‑six high school and college tennis programs—including the girls teams from Brandon, South Dakota—logged 573.5 volunteer hours. Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor and our corporate partner, USTA Northern, these hours generated:

  • $5,730.50 for participating school tennis programs
  • $5,730.50 in matching support from USTA Northern
  • $5,730.50 directly benefiting Pine Tree’s mission

Together, our volunteers embody the spirit of Pine Tree—service, generosity, and a shared commitment to helping kids with cancer live healthier, brighter futures.

Our Impact: Through Social Media

In 2025, our social media presence became a powerful amplifier for Pine Tree’s mission. During the peak Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic season (May–August), our Instagram engagement surged—thanks to the creative efforts of volunteer Jack Allaben and our partners at Entirely Bonkers Media Company.

  • Reach increased sixfold, jumping from 5,819 to 35,600
  • Video views nearly quadrupled, rising from 1,153 to 4,303
  • Link clicks skyrocketed, climbing from 25 to 999

This growth reflects more than numbers—it reflects deeper connection. Our online community helped build excitement around our 40th anniversary, shared stories of impact, and extended our reach to new audiences. Social media continues to be a vital tool in raising awareness, inspiring support, and strengthening engagement with players, families, and donors year-round.

Our Impact: 2025 Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic

The 2025 Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic marked a milestone four decades in the making—our 40‑LOVE Anniversary—and the celebration lived up to the moment. With more than 200 players, new champions crowned across all divisions, and record‑setting energy from our community, it was a year to remember.


This year’s tournament featured:

  • 198 total players (112 adults and 86 juniors)
  • $350,000 raised by Pine Tree players in support of pediatric cancer research
  • Full crowds every day, creating an electric atmosphere at both Life Time White Bear Lake and Bloomington South
  • We crowned 9 champions, including many first-time winners
  • Our beloved food tent also had a standout year, raising nearly $30,000 thanks to the incredible support of our volunteers and attendees. 

From the first serve to the final championship point, the 40th Anniversary Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic showcased everything that makes this event so special—exceptional tennis, unmatched community spirit, and a shared commitment to helping kids with cancer live healthier, brighter futures.

The 2025 Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic marked a milestone four decades in the making—our 40‑LOVE Anniversary—and the celebration lived up to the moment. With more than 200 players, new champions crowned across all divisions, and record‑setting energy from our community, it was a year to remember.

This year’s tournament featured:

  • 198 total players (112 adults and 86 juniors)
  • $350,000 raised by Pine Tree players in support of pediatric cancer research
  • Full crowds every day, creating an electric atmosphere at both Life Time White Bear Lake and Bloomington South
  • We crowned 9 champions, including many first-time winners!
  • Open: Annika Munson/Sam Rathmanner 
  • Masters: Kelly Buckley/Brett Morse-Karzen 
  • Grand Masters: Amy Jamieson/Mario De la Torre 
  • 21U: Martina Francisco/Isaac Lower
  • 17U: Olivia McDonald/Santi Sanchez
  • 15U:  Bella Loucks/Jonathan Fan 
  • 13U: Amelia Johnson/Aariz Hassan
  • 11U: Emily Zheng/Izhan Hassan
  • Green Ball: Ida Vanden Heuvel/Wally Cisnewski 


Our beloved food tent also had a standout year, raising nearly $30,000 thanks to the incredible support of our volunteers and attendees. Over the four days, fans enjoyed:

  • 349 Apple 6‑packs
  • 440 Apple Rollovers
  • 118 Cider Licks
  • 471 Brats
  • 418 Burgers
  • 717 Beers
  • 203 Seltzers
  • 123 Signature Drinks


From the first serve to the final championship point, the 40th Anniversary Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic showcased everything that makes this event so special—exceptional tennis, unmatched community spirit, and a shared commitment to helping kids with cancer live healthier, brighter futures.

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Our Impact: Other Fundraising Events

Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund also hosted two additional event in 2025 - the Swing City Spring Fling NTRP Tournament and the Game, Set, Cure Luncheon in May.


Game, Set, Cure Luncheon - Over 160 people attended the 2025 Game, Set, Cure Luncheon on May 20 at Town & Country Club in St. Paul. The program featured doctors and staff from Children's Minnesota, as wellas Tricia Anderson - the first female ever diagnosed with PPB over 40 years ago. Thanks to a $15,000 match by two anonymous donors, the event raised over $45,000 for the cause. 


Swing City Spring Fling - The Swing City Spring Fling NTRP Tournament at Life Time St. Louis Park featured NTRP players at the 7.0, 8.0 and 9.0 levels in five events with $10 of each entry supporting Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund. Spring Fling players were also encouraged to peer-to-peer fundraise for the cause. Thanks to a matching gift from tournament founder Ron Peterson, players raised over $2,400 in hopes of finding a cure!

Our Impact: 2025 Financial Stewardship

At the Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund, our commitment has always been simple and steadfast: to maximize the dollars we invest directly into childhood cancer research locally at Children’s Minnesota and around the world. Since becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we have worked diligently to maintain a strong donations‑to‑revenue ratio—first demonstrated in 2018 when we contributed $260,000 on revenue of $360,000.


Thanks to careful financial management and the unwavering generosity of our supporters, we have consistently met—and often exceeded—our goal of directing 70% or more of annual revenue to research. Since our inception, our average ratio has remained nearly 72%, a remarkable testament to the trust and commitment of our community.


Since 2023, we have seen a 40% increase in revenue, a testament to the incredible generosity and commitment of you—our donors. In 2025, we also experienced a rise in expenses as we expanded programming and navigated inflationary pressures in areas such as rentals, insurance, and transaction fees. Even with these shifts, our focus remains unwavering: delivering critical funding for childhood cancer research and stewarding every dollar with care.


We are committed to transparency. Copies of our tax returns are available online, and we welcome any questions you may have. Please reach out anytime—we are always happy to help deepen your understanding of our work and the impact you make possible.

Our Impact : Through The Eyes of Tricia Anderson

“My name is Trisha, and your support changed everything.”


At just 18 months old, I became the first female ever diagnosed with Pleuropulmonary Blastoma (PPB), a rare childhood cancer linked to the DICER1 gene. My early years were defined by intense high-dose chemotherapy sessions, multiple surgeries, and long hospital stays.


When my younger brother Adam was diagnosed with the same cancer, his oncologist confirmed what he suspected: this was genetic. His discovery helped define a new childhood cancer—and Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund stepped in to accelerate the research that followed.


Sadly, Adam passed away at age four, but his legacy fueled breakthroughs that now save lives. Pine Tree’s flexible, immediate funding enabled early‑detection tools that changed the future for my family and many others including my nephew whose PPB was found so early it required only a simple removal—no chemo, no long hospital stay and no trauma.


Today, my children, nieces, and nephews are healthy and thriving because research caught up to our family’s needs. Families worldwide affected by DICER1 now have answers, support networks, and hope because Pine Tree believes rare cancers deserve attention and solutions. 


“Your donation isn’t just money—it’s hope. Your generosity doesn’t just fund research. It gives families a roadmap, a fighting chance, and a future. My family and I are here today - not just surviving, but thriving - because donors like you are choosing to make a difference.”

2026: Our Future Impact

As we enter 2026, Pine Tree remains focused on deepening our impact and expanding our reach. Our priorities include:

  • Accelerating research funding to drive new breakthroughs
  • Strengthening family support initiatives across the care continuum
  • Growing community engagement through expanded volunteer opportunities
  • Enhancing donor stewardship and transparent impact reporting
  • Continuing the tradition and excellence of the Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic

Together, we will continue to bring hope, healing, and brighter tomorrows to children and families facing cancer. Your generosity fuels every discovery, every moment of comfort, and every step toward a future where kids can simply be kids. THANK YOU for believing in this mission and for standing with us.


Game, Set, Cure!

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