THE ASSOCIATION OF VOLUNTEERS
Fundraising to support unmet needs of children with long term medical needs
WHO WE ARE
A Legacy of Antiques. A New Era of Style
The Association of Volunteers raises funds for the Children’s Convalescent Hospital, a division of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.
The Convalescent Hospital was established to provide medical care for underserved and homeless children. When it became apparent that the hospital needed more funds and man hours than the staff could provide, the hospital’s governing body decided to form an auxiliary. The auxiliary was called the Association of Volunteers.
Founded in 1964, the Association of Volunteers was tasked with providing a coordinated volunteer force to raise funds for unmet needs for a broad range of programs and equipment that enhance the lives of children with long term health challenges. The AOV continued to raise funds for these needs as the Convalescent hospital became a division of Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center in 1974.
Since its founding the Association has raised over 4 million dollars to provide funding for over 100 different needs, programs, and services, including
A Family Development Center with a Preschool for Abused Children
A Limb Deficiency Clinic
A Comprehensive Epilepsy Program
A Pediatric Pulmonary Disease Center
A Pediatric Rheumatology Research Program
A Pediatric Rehabilitation Project
Expansion and Renovation of Occupational and Physical Therapy and support of their be.well health and fitness programs
Support of Project Search and Children’s Hospital Aquatics Therapy Program
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WHAT WE DO
The AOV fundraises by hosting events showcasing design elements in various aspects of life to bring people together increasing awareness of the needs of The AOV fundraises by hosting events showcasing design elements in various aspects of life to bring people together increasing awareness of the needs of children with chronic illness.
From 1965-2015 the main fundraising event was the Cincinnati Antiques Festival. The festival was a multi-day celebration featuring a variety of events including celebrity guests, high teas, tours, auctions, and raffles as well as vendor exhibits to shop.
In 2016 the annual event transitioned into Design Cincinnati. This renewed lecture & luncheon event celebrates beautiful living in all aspects of the home, inside and out, including interior design, entertaining and tabletop decor, and even fashion, all with a nod to our history of antiques.
As we look to the future, the Association of Volunteers is dedicated to continuing to provide programs and equipment that enhance the lives of children with long term medical needs. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you at our events.
OUR REASONS WHY
BE.WELL
BICYCLE CAMP
Through a partnership with I can bike, participants are introduced to riding a two-wheeler on adaptive bikes. By attending each day for one week, the majority of patients transition to a regular two-wheeler. Weekly bike clubs keep them riding in style.
BE.WELL
RUNNING CLUB
For several years, we have helped fun the be.well running club. Participants receive new running shoes from Fleet Feet, mileage trackers, and gather twice a week to train for a local 5K in a Cincinnati Park.
BE.WELL GARDENING
In 2020, we funded and volunteered as gardening buddies to children growing sensory gardens, in partnership in Gorman Heritage Farms. After the success of that program, this year, we have funded children in the growing of a pizza garden. The ingredients they grow will be used at a pizza-making party.
BE.WELL GROOVE
To keep patients active and engaged during the pandemic, Be.Well joined forces with Band in a Bus and Pones to create a fun music and movement class, addressing both OT and PT goals for participants.
BE.WELL COOKING & BAKING
We were thrilled to support yet another program during the pandemic and then beyond. Participants learned cooking and baking skills, worked on OT goals, and participated in a secret chef cooking contest.
SPECIAL PROJECTS
The Cincinnati Children's team with Be.Well is constantly brainstorming new ways to deliver programs to patients that will help achieve OT and PT goals outside of the traditional hospital setting. If you'd like to be involved, contact us today.
HONORING KRISTIN CROWLEY
Former President, Association of Volunteers
The Association of Volunteers is saddened by the tragic loss of long-time leader of the AOV, Kristin Crowley.
Kristin served as President of the Association of Volunteers and, in addition, was a dedicated volunteer, both before and following her leadership role. Kristin was passionate about raising awareness and support to close the gap of unmet needs to enhance the lives of children with long-term medical diagnoses.  Her family asks that if you are so moved, you donate to this fund in her memory so that Kristin's legacy may live on.
The Association of Volunteers is an auxiliary of the Convalescent Hospital Fund for Children. In our 59 years as an organization, we have raised over 4 million dollars to support over 100 different programs and equipment benefiting children with lifelong health needs.
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Proceeds raised this year will continue to benefit Cincinnati Children's be.well program, which offers programs and equipment encouraging children to be active. Programs include skiing, tennis, gardening, soccer, yoga, karate, and many more. Together we can increase opportunities for activity and participation to help more children thrive.
There is beauty in the world
So much beauty in the world
Always beauty in the world
Macy Gray
CONTACT THE ASSOCIATION OF VOLUNTEERS
