Joy and laughter filled the Louisville Zoo as 2,000 Kosair Kids and their families came together for the 21st Annual Kosair Kids Night at the Zoo. The event offered a safe trick-or-treat experience for children of differing abilities. The zoo came alive with costumes and countless smiles as kids of all abilities strolled from booth to booth, collecting treats from kind Kosair for Kids volunteers.
Since 2005, Kosair Kids have dressed as their favorite characters and toured the zoo, collecting candy, and seeing animals in a sensory-friendly environment tailored to their needs. Each child invited to the event has been supported by Kosair for Kids through the Kosair for Kids Financial Assistance Program or has received services through a partner organization. Some families build costumes for their children that incorporate wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices.
“This event perfectly captures what Kosair for Kids is about,” Kosair for Kids President Barry Dunn said. “Every smile, every laugh reminds us why our mission matters, and why we continue this event year after year. It’s incredible to see so many families, partners, and volunteers come together to create a night where every child can feel supported, create joyful memories, and be a kid.”
The Kosair for Kids Halloween Party is a tradition for those like Ashley May and her family.
“It was awesome,” Ashley said. “It was a lower crowd, and it was just great to be with people who are walking the same parts of life we are.”
Since 1923, Kosair for Kids has worked to create a world where children in need live life to the fullest by enhancing the health and well-being of children by delivering financial support for healthcare, research, education, social services, and child advocacy.