In 2017, Wilmington University graduate Caitlyn Kuhn envisioned an organization of volunteers who would visit local hospitals and treatment facilities dressed as children’s favorite characters to bring joy to kids undergoing medical treatment or experiencing trauma.
Kuhn, who holds a B.S. in psychology and a master’s in human services counseling with a focus on crisis and trauma—plus a love of community theater—manifested that idea into the nonprofit Pursuit for Peace. The Camden–Wyoming organization has helped more than 4,000 children and their families in Delaware over the last six years.
Twenty-plus volunteers dress as popular princesses and sing, dance, create crafts and read to children at home or in local hospitals, special needs facilities, behavioral centers and residential facilities, in addition to making appearances throughout the community. The group has partnered with organizations such as Nemours, St. Jude’s, Embrace Delaware, Ronald McDonald House of Delaware, Down Syndrome Association of Delaware and Exceptional Care for Children in Newark, among others, and is now expanding into Washington, D.C., and New England.
“It’s wonderful to see the excitement in the kids’ eyes and the joy they experience when their favorite princess walks into the room,” Kuhn says. “Some of these children are going through things many of us could never even imagine, and it’s so rewarding to give them a sense of normalcy and provide a glimmer of hope during these difficult times.”
For more information, visit pursuitforpeace.org.
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