Oley 2024, Behind the Scenes: Child's Play

Jade Lusk | Oley Foundation Youth Program Coordinator

Coming in as a new Oley Foundation staff member, I was impressed even before the annual conference began. Through the busyness of planning and running a conference, Oley staff really try their best to accommodate everyone, down to the smallest details that some might overlook―things like advocating for attendees and their needs to hotel staff, making sure everything is wheelchair accessible, making maps friendly for those with impaired vision, and more. I truly applaud them.

My heart is overflowing with the love and kindness I saw at the annual conference from kids, parents, and other attendees. It was a pleasure to get to know the children in Kidz Klub, and each of you who stopped and said hi. Aside from my time with the kids, my favorite moments from the conference are the times I got to just freeze and connect. The elevator discussions were the best.

The first thing at the conference was the amazing welcome reception. I had fun creating the activity tables for this event. I enjoyed setting them up even more, because I had help from one of our Kidz Klub kids. He was so excited to help in any way he could. “Put me to work,” he said. The activities were a nice change of pace in a room filled with so many people. I heard many attendees say they needed something to do that was more on the calmer side, like paint by diamonds or making bracelets.

For those who didn't get a chance to witness the fun of Kidz Klub, let me share a bit about it. At its most basic, Kidz Klub is a safe place kids can go while parents attend sessions at the conference. It grew into an amazing experience for Oley’s youngest members. From the games, crafts, dancing, singing and more, we truly connected. The conversations that I witnessed were powerful. Kids dug deep and asked themselves who they care about and how they can connect with them and new friends as well.

It can be hard for some families to take a trip to the zoo or other outside entertainment, especially in the hot summer. So we brought outside experiences to the kids. The Phoenix Zoo was first on my list as I was planning. They were well priced and when they came, they brought some amazing animals (like a kookaburra!), which really helped the kids and the teens open up. It was wonderful to see the smiles and amazement on their faces.

We also found a Lego group called Bricks 4 Kidz. They came on the first day, and that activity helped break the ice for kids who would be meeting new friends for the first time. After these activities, the kids helped teach the zookeepers and the Lego people a little about the Oley world. We gave them a gift bag that had more information inside it. The kids were so thankful to them, and our visitors definitely left feeling loved.

Now let me brag about these amazing kids. They blew me away with their kindness and hearts that were open for new friends. A few children even made wheelchair parking for our zoo session without being prompted. The connections that were made were out of this world. I hope they all enjoyed their time in Kidz Klub just as much as I did.

Parents, thanks for trusting us with your most valuable treasure, your children. I enjoyed being able to chat with many of you and hope to be able to find more time next year to do the same. Knowing that many of our Kidz Klub attendees have different medical needs, I loved learning from you and your children about new ways to help keep them safe.

I couldn't have created such a great Kidz Klub experience without the help from our amazing volunteers. They gave their time and hearts to Kidz Klub and made it a success. Thanks again. Oley is not one person, it is a village. I can't wait to see many of you at Oley’s 2025 conference, Primed and Ready to Grow.