Through our unique array of youth adventure programs, pet therapy services and book donation programs, we create moments of uninhibited joy for children experiencing Complex Medical Conditions, disabilities and chronic childhood diseases. Whether those moments occur with a group of close-knit friends, snuggling a beloved pet, or uplifting children throughout our communities, Brave Like Me provides safe, supportive and accessible experiences for every child we serve.
Our current programs are housed under our three main experiences:
We believe every child has the ability to dream big and do amazing things. Our Brave Friends youth adventure programs provide joy-inducing, life-changing mini adventures designed around children and teens impacted by Complex Medical Conditions. Through activities like indoor rock climbing, high-ropes courses, go-karting, horseback riding, indoor skydiving and more, we serve children of all abilities, helping them build resilience, be brave, discover new courage and overcome their own perceived limitations to live their fullest lives.
There are countless studies that have proved that animals are good for our souls. For children and teens experiencing extended hospital stays, being separated from their family pet is especially difficult. Though there are nearly 200 children’s hospitals nationwide, only a handful have a dedicated family pet center, where family pets can reunite safely with a hospitalized child.
We are working to change that. Our unique mobile Family Pet Reunion Center is a state-of-the-art fully-accessible facility where hospitalized kids can spend time with their family pet and experience the benefits of animal-assisted therapy.
Inspired by Brayden Otten’s enthusiasm and love for reading and learning, our Brayden’s Books book donation program provides books to local schools and nonprofits serving kids in the Cincinnati area and beyond. This specially-curated collection of books offers lessons in integrity, perseverance, curiosity, courage and being brave.
Through a partnership with Queen City Book Bank and Ronald McDonald House Cincinnati, we provide children in underserved communities with resources and opportunities that foster a love of reading, fuel literacy skills and nurture self-esteem.
