Community Involvement
The Child Life Program provides programming, supplies, gifts, and entertainment not only for hospitalized children, but also for those in outpatient areas. We believe it is important to offer children safe spaces and normal day-to-day activities, the kind they would participate in if they were not in the hospital.
Here at CHaD, we think of activities as our tools to help keep things normal for the child. Your support helps to ensure that missing out on an exciting event or opportunity for play will not be another concern.
Ways you can help
Weekly volunteer assignment
You can commit to a consistent two-hour weekly volunteer slot. You would be involved in Camp CHaD, which supports the developmental and diversional needs of CHaD inpatients.
Monthly activities
A small group of people can schedule a monthly time to come and provide a Camp CHaD activity. The group would be responsible for planning, providing supplies, and facilitating the activity. The Child Life Team is available for activity ideas, developmental guidance, and other general support.
Entertainment groups
A small group can make a one-time visit to the inpatient unit. Past visits have included music, dance, theatrical performances, magicians, and storytellers.
Read about bringing entertainment to CHaD and fill out an application
Quarterly collections
You can make small themed collections on a regular basis. Some ideas would be character band-aids (latex-free), things that help children to breathe deeply (bubbles, pinwheels, kazoos), items for infants, board games, music, and DVDs. Themes could be chosen by your area of interest or on the highest area of need.
Holiday or season adoption
Help us celebrate a holiday or season! This would include providing and hanging decorations, arts and crafts, and a party related to the event.
Read-a-thon
Start an office book club or bring the read-a-thon to your child’s school, a group of friends, a church community, or other organization.
Donations
Donations can be made in many ways and sizes. Please view our wish list for our latest needs. We accept new and gently used, washable toys, as well as monetary donations. Please see our frequently asked questions for specific guidelines and restrictions.
