Living in a bustling metropolis like the GTA means seeing all sorts of fun and exciting things, but you'll see something pretty exceptional during Capes Week, February 28-March 7, 2025, when folks all over will don red superhero capes.
More than a way to put smiles on faces this winter, each cape you see during Capes Week is awarded to a superhero raising money for Capes for Kids — the annual fundraiser in support of Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.
As the largest hospital of its kind in Canada, Holland Bloorview helps over 9,000 children with disabilities and complex medical needs access specialized health care every year.
Now in its 9th year, Capes for Kids has raised over $6 million to help fund hospital programs and services for children and youth with disabilities and their families.
It's not too late to participate! Whether you register solo or organize a group to raise money together, you can register for Capes for Kids and help make a difference for kids with disabilities.
Your fundraising will support kids like 14-year-old Ragheeb. In elementary school, Ragheeb turned Capes for Kids into a school-wide celebration and raised over $3,300 for the hospital. This year, Ragheeb has an even bigger goal — launching Capes for Kids at his high school and breaking his own record.
With help from Holland Bloorview, Ragheeb navigated the transition into high school and being a teenager with a disability. "[Staff at Holland Bloorview] give me advice about putting myself out there and how to respond when kids at school ask questions like, 'Why are you in a wheelchair?'" explains Ragheeb.
Holland Bloorview's Capes for Kids ambassadors (from left to right) Symone, Monika and Ragheeb.Courtesy of Holland Bloorview
In addition to providing specialized medical care and conducting world-leading research, Holland Bloorview works hard to improve the well-being of their clients and fight the stigma that people with disabilities face.
Programs like independence workshops and music therapy, as well as services like financial support for families, rely on Capes for Kids for the funds they need to continue enriching the lives of the hospital's clients.
There's still time to get your work buddies, friends or family together to help Holland Bloorview continue their essential work. Register your team or solo fundraising effort at capesforkids.ca
Speaking of work buddies, Capes for Kids is also a great team-building activity. Holland Bloorview has perfected their approach to supporting corporate participants, and can even help corporate teams by creating fundraising pages or sending items like capes and posters. Consider Holland Bloorview your official superhero sidekicks!
When Capes Week comes around, not only will you get to wear your cape with pride, but you'll be part of a wonderful community that has a massive impact on the lives and well-being of kids and youth with disabilities and their families.
To register for Capes for Kids, visit their website. To learn more about Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, visit their website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.