Our second year hosting Rylee's Rally is a huge shift from last year. While we had great turn out and support in 2008, it was an uphill climb-explaining the event purpose, calls-calls-calls-and follow up calls, personal meetings with area offices, mass faxes and emails, planning on a very small budget, etc. We didn't have a true head count until about a week before the event.
This year we are encouraged, and frankly pleasantly overwhelmed, by the early response of our vendors and agencies. The masses are clamoring to be involved. We cannot say enough what a blessing it is to have such positive feedback and continued support within our Huntington and tri-state community.
Families in the area should know there are many programs, services, and agencies in the area-ready, waiting, and willing to help them give the best possible care to their child.
We have 20,000 sq. feet of space this year at the Veteran's Memorial Field House. In addition to the indoor space, we will also have the field located next to Field House. As mentioned earlier, one of our 2008 vendors-Family Medical Supply in Wheeling-donated the entire rental fee. Vendors are being asked to once again pay a small fee ($30) which covers set up/tear down of their table and skirting. Stipends are available this year for small non-profits who would like to attend, but may not have the funds available. Aaron's Products, WSAZ, WOWK, and the Herald-Dispatch will again be taking care of all our advertising with 'in-kind' donations. These special people donate their time and abilities, and enable us to reach many families in the tri-state area. Each year Shriner's Hospital provides bags for families to cram full of information and some national vendors will provide catalogs showcasing special needs equipment, therapy tools, and sensory toys. Antioch Missionary Baptist's Special Needs Nursery in Ona, WV hosts a 'Quiet Room' giving the kids-or their parents!-down time. They offer space for diaper or clothing changes, timeout from the hustle and bustle, a nap, or quiet activity. Tangible Alternatives will partner this year with national vendor, FlagHouse, offering a 'Snoezelen Room.' The room will provide a controlled multi sensory space for children to explore and enjoy.
We are pleased to say that we will once again feed all our families, thanks to generous donations from our Proctorville support team. Many area companies are already donating door prizes for families and parents-'Date Night Packages' including dinner and one night hotel accommodations at Pullman Plaza, 'Movie Night' for the entire family, massage certificates for caregivers, spa packages for mom, therapy/sensory items, and many more. We also plan to have special appearances throughout the day-local athletic teams, mascots/characters, and others. Activities will be sponsored by area companies-crafts and games to name a few.
Meet one of our families
Marci Osburn is a wife and mother, and a practitioner in West Virginia's Birth to Three, early intervention program. Last year she donated her time and talents to Rylee's Rally-helping us set up and taking care of last minute needs...all with a smile and energy that put us all to shame! The Osburn family are a wonderful example of so many of the families in our area. Though work and family keep them busy, they always have time to turn around and help other families in need. We asked Marci to share her unique perspective since she is a practitioner, special needs parent, and volunteers each year at Rylee's Rally.
"I feel like Rylee's Rally is a fantastic resource for families who are just beginning their journey and for those who've been doing this awhile. Fresh ideas and contact information are available to help each family with their individual needs. As a volunteer last year, I really enjoyed meeting vendors and connecting with families, all while learning community resource information for my own family. As a Birth to Three practitioner my families rely not just on my educational and work experience, but my personal knowledge of services and providers. I'm excited about Rylee's Rally 2009 as it will once again offer much needed resources and information for my family and those I serve."
Imagine the Poss'abilities' if we link each family to the wonderful providers and vendors in their area, enabling them to give their child the care they need and deserve.
Rylee's Rally 2009...not defined by a diagnosis.
The next Rylee's Rally Committee Meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 2nd at 11am John Marshall side of Cabell Huntington Hospital, 3rd Floor, University Pediatrics
