We help kids feel good, so they can get well.
Each year, millions of lives are affected by pediatric illness or injury and disrupted by the stress it causes. We want all families to know that if your child faces medical challenges, Project Sunshine is there for you.
We partner with medical facilities across the United States and in four international locations to meet the psychosocial and developmental needs of pediatric patients. Project Sunshine’s programming supports these critical needs by providing increased opportunities for play and authentic engagement in the medical environment – restoring a crucial sense of normalcy for patients and their families.
Hospitals deliver the treatment. Project Sunshine brings the joy.
Project Sunshine recruits and trains volunteers – community members, college students, corporations, and youth – to deliver activities. Our programs promote creative expression, socialization, and learning. Most of all, they let young patients act and feel like kids or teens during emotionally and physically challenging times.
It all started with one volunteer.
Project Sunshine was founded in 1998 by then-college student Joseph Weilgus. Joe visited a friend in the hospital and was overwhelmed by the number of young patients he witnessed looking lonely and bored in their rooms. All it took was a dream – and a clown costume – to realize that the hospital is an environment where medicine and smiles can meet. Meet Project Sunshine’s visionary and founder.
Meet the Team
Project Sunshine's staff is the heart of the organization. We are passionate about kids and big fans of fun. We strive to embody the spirit of our founder and make every day and every smile count.
