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How wearing a cape helps build a more inclusive world

Join forces with Holland Bloorview from Feb. 28 to March 7, in support of children with disabilities

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How wearing a cape helps build a more inclusive world
In this year’s Capes for Kids campaign, Holland Bloorview ambassador Ragheeb has already raised over $2,000

When Nolen’s father gave him a gift last Christmas, it wasn’t just any ordinary present—it was a treasure chest of memories. Inside were relics of Nolen’s journey, like his first orthotic, his very first cape from Capes for Kids and voice notes from people who supported him over the years. Among them, one message stood out: a recording from American sports broadcaster Jack Armstrong that reminded him, “Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t do.”

With the help of Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Nolen, who has cerebral palsy, stays active. His connection to the hospital runs deep. From providing orthotics and prosthetics to speech therapy and ongoing rehabilitation services, the hospital has been a cornerstone for his growth and independence.

Nolen’s story is just one of thousands that illustrate why Holland Bloorview and its Capes for Kids campaign is so vital. The annual fundraiser supports Canada’s largest children’s rehabilitation hospital, which is focused on combining world-class care, transformational research and academic leadership in the field of pediatric disability.

How wearing a cape helps build a more inclusive world
Holland Bloorview ambassador Nolen behind-the-scenes of this year’s Capes for Kids photoshoot

Becoming a superhero

During Capes week, participants wear red superhero capes everywhere—to school, work, coffee shops and even spin classes. The aim is to spark meaningful conversations about accessibility and inclusion while raising critical funds for the hospital. The funds raised through Capes for Kids support essential services and programs, from music and art therapy to independence initiatives that help teens develop skills like cooking, budgeting and navigating public transit. Funds also support research focused on enhancing care, developing assistive technologies and evaluating barriers that restrict the inclusion of children with disabilities.

Now in its ninth year, Capes for Kids has raised over $6.5 million. This year, Holland Bloorview needs all superheroes to join forces and raise more than ever before to help kids with disabilities explore, play and heal in ways that go beyond traditional care.

How wearing a cape helps build a more inclusive world
Monika, Canada’s first professional runway model with Down Syndrome, is styling something new this spring: a red cape for Capes for Kids

Leading by example

Ragheeb is one of the kids who has benefitted from that care—and now he’s giving back. Last year, he rallied 18 of his classmates to participate in Capes for Kids, transforming their shared vision into a school-wide celebration. Through creative initiatives like popcorn sales and heartfelt speeches at assemblies, Ragheeb and his friends proudly wore their capes and raised over $3,300 for the hospital.

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For Ragheeb, it’s not just about raising money, it’s about building understanding and fostering inclusion. With help from Holland Bloorview, Ragheeb, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, has been able to navigate the challenges of transitioning to high school with a disability. “They 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?’” Ragheeb says. Beyond that, Holland Bloorview has helped him discover activities that bring him joy, including accessible sailing, wheelchair basketball and competing in robotics programs.

Monika is also ready to put on her cape. She discovered her love of synchronized swimming in the hospital’s sensory-friendly pool, building the confidence she carried into Paris Fashion Week: born with Down syndrome, Monika has become Canada’s first professional runway model with the diagnosis. For her, wearing a cape is a reminder of the love, inclusion and empowerment she wants to share with the world.

Participating and fundraising

Join forces with Nolen, Ragheeb and Monika and support their mission. When you participate in Capes for Kids, you’re not only helping care for kids and youth with disabilities, you’re also encouraging them to dream big and pursue what they love. Whether you choose to fundraise personally or with your company, together, we can create a world of possibilities for kids and youth with disabilities.

Capes for Kids runs from Feb. 28 to March 7. Visit capesforkids.ca to register, donate and learn more.

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