WHO WE ARE

In 1998, college student Joe Weilgus visited a friend in the hospital. Walking by the pediatric wing, he noticed many young patients sitting alone in their rooms with nothing to do. Unable to forget what he saw, Joe returned to the hospital the following week dressed up as a clown determined to spread cheer.

Joe’s positive energy boosted the morale of scared patients and anxious caregivers. Through “clowning around” with the kids and keeping them company, he realized that every young patient could benefit from the same support and companionship. He recruited classmates to join him in his volunteer efforts to brighten the lives of local pediatric patients. Shortly after, other college campuses expressed interest in making a difference, with Joe’s co-workers later doing the same.

And we are one of those campuses. We are Project Sunshine's Northwestern University Chapter.

WHAT WE DO

The healing power of play.

Project Sunshine harnesses the power of play to support the psychosocial and developmental needs of children and their families as they face medical challenges.

Project Sunshine is the leading volunteer-based organization delivering free, in-hospital programs to pediatric patients and their families.

Each year in the United States, over 3 million children are hospitalized. 30% of chronically ill kids face academic disruption, missing key instruction and vital social interactions.

To remedy this, Project Sunshine partners with over 400 hospitals and medical centers in 175 cities across the United States and 4 international locations to connect them with over 20,000 trained volunteers who deliver socially driven activities to pediatric patients and their families.

We work with Child Life Specialists and other healthcare staff to create a space in the hospital environment for kids to socialize with each other and participate in fun activities that are both recreational and educational.

Opportunities for play and mental stimulation distract patients from their physical and emotional challenges, give caregivers a break to tend to their own needs – like simply getting fresh air and taking a walk outside – and support hospital staff through the provision of additional services and resources.

WHY WE MATTER

Short-term benefits:

Children facing medical challenges get a chance to act and feel like kids while in the hospital setting
Pediatric patients feel more relaxed and less stressed
Caregivers take a break and participate in activities that promote coping, relaxation, and socialization
Volunteers feel connected to the communities where they live and work
Hospital staff feels supported through additional resources

Medium-term benefits:

Pediatric patients are distracted from pain and more willing to accept and adhere to treatment
Children and their families feel an increased sense of strength
Caregivers learn relaxation techniques that help them cope with stressors
Volunteers build personal and professional networks and skills
Hospital staff are better able to serve children and families

Long-term benefits:

Physical, social, and emotional well-being of patients are improved
Patients are helped to reach social, developmental, and academic milestones
Pediatric patients’ health outcomes are improved
Hospitals are transformed into joyful environments for children and families
Volunteers’ lives are enriched through meaningful community service
Increased awareness of the non-medical needs of pediatric patients and their impact on recovery

CONNECTION TO COLLEGE STUDENTS

Project

Project Sunshine offers college students a wonderful opportunity to serve in hospital settings. By interacting with pediatric patients, students will be able to gain an enriching and rewarding experience whiel also bringing joy to the lives of children.

While we welcome students of all backgrounds and majors, students with an interest in exploring pre-med/health paths or working with children are strongly encouraged to join.

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Project Sunshine at NU's Executive Board works together to make connecting to pediatric patients easy for college students! If you would like more information or want to reach out to an executive board member, feel free to contact us.

Co-Chapter Leaders: Esther Cha & Zoe Maroko

Northwestern Faculty Advisor: Professor Luke Flores

Vice President: Celeste Lai

Communications Director: Avanti Parkhe

Treasurer: David Bastos

Fundraising Director: Grace Lee

Secretary/Director of Skilled Volunteers: Eva Offut