The idea of Smilezone started when Adam Graves and Scott Bachly were approached to make a financial contribution to the construction of a local hospital in Oakville, ON. The request helped Adam and Scott realize they wanted to make a difference in the lives of children, not only in their community, but in communities across Canada. As fathers themselves, Adam and Scott wanted to give kids and thei
r families a place to experience true reprieve from the day-to-day health challenges they face; simply, a place that would put a smile on every child’s face! This determination led to the creation of the Smilezone Foundation in 2012. As a registered Canadian charity, the idea behind the Foundation is simple: transform spaces in healthcare settings to improve the lives of children facing illness, disabilities, and physical and emotional obstacles—ultimately putting a smile on their faces! A Smilezone (or “Zone”) provides a warm, safe and accessible space for children receiving treatment in healthcare settings, as well as the siblings and family members supporting their loved one throughout their journey. Visiting a Zone is something that a child can look forward to; it eases the anxiety of being in a hospital or treatment facility, giving them a fun, safe space to play and smile. Zones can be constructed in existing waiting rooms, chemotherapy and treatment rooms, and custom patient care spaces created for a specific facility. We offer inclusive and interactive opportunities to children of all abilities by uniquely incorporating accessible technology and sensory features in our Zones. Zone features may also include fresh paint, bright murals, custom cabinetry, entertainment units, and more. Each Smilezone is fully customized to ensure smile satisfaction. A collaborative and client-centered approach to each Zone design is our top priority. The Smilezone Team will coordinate, design, and evaluate target Zones in partnership with each organization’s interprofessional staff team, in order to best identify the needs of children and the community. After months of planning, Zone transformations take place entirely over one weekend, from set-up to clean up – children, families and staff are blown away by the incredible changes they see when they walk in Monday morning! Smilezone Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which consists of ten dedicated professionals who strongly believe in the mission and vision of the Foundation. Their tireless efforts and committed passion play a vital role in the success of Smilezone. As of 2017, Smilezone Foundation has transformed over 100 Zones in more than 20 communities across Ontario! Thousands of children and families access our Zones on a daily basis, bringing smiles to their faces every time they walk through the door. A full list of our completed Zones and upcoming installations can be found on our website, at www.smilezone.com
“We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do” – Mother Teresa
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