A Galactic Alliance: Nonprofits Join Forces for Families

Rancho Obi-Wan and George Mark Children’s House create an unforgettable Star Wars Day for patients and families.   When the galaxy far, far away met the compassionate world of George Mark Children’s House, the result was pure magic. Now in its fourth year, Star Wars Day has become a beloved tradition, bringing heartfelt moments of…

Uplifting Those Who Lift Us

Hummingbird Awards Take Flight in Their Second Year At George Mark Children’s House, we believe in pausing to honor the people who help make this place so meaningful. That’s why we created the Hummingbird Awards, now in their second year. These awards were established to recognize individuals, organizations, and partners whose steady commitment and heartfelt…

Pet Therapy Spotlight – Ezra

Ezra on a Mission Bringing Joy and Comfort to Those in Need From the way his tail wags with purpose to his knack for sensing who needs him most, Ezra has left an indelible mark on countless lives. But what makes Ezra’s story so extraordinary is his role as an agent of peace and joy…

Pet Therapy Spotlight – Dakota

Meet Dakota: A Tail of Unconditional Love Filled with Wiggles and Giggles Every hero has a story, but Dakota’s is one of quiet, unconditional love. With soft eyes that radiate warmth, a unique wiggle that stands in for a wagging tail, and a calm, gentle presence, Dakota brings something truly extraordinary to every life he…

Pet Therapy Spotlight – Kaya

Meet Kaya, the Therapy Dog Bringing Joy to Young Lives At George Mark Children’s House, healing extends beyond conventional medical care. It’s about creating moments of connection, comfort, and joy for the children and families we serve. One extraordinary contributor to that mission is Kaya, a gentle and charismatic therapy dog with an uncanny ability…

Pet Therapy Spotlight – Dayo, Cecil, and Lucy

Healing Paws: Therapy Dogs Bring Joy to George Mark Children’s House This month, we’re celebrating some of our most beloved visitors at George Mark Children’s House: the four-legged friends who have a magical way of bringing joy and ease wherever they go. These furry therapists offer a kind of comfort that words often can’t—proving that…

The Heart of What We Do

Recognizing Those Who Give So Generously April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month — a time to recognize the importance of volunteering and to honor volunteers’ significant contributions. At George Mark, we recognize the profound impact volunteers make. We also acknowledge their power to tackle society’s greatest challenges, to build stronger communities, and to be a force that can transform the…

A Compassionate Presence at George Mark

Kyle Amsler: Compassionate Child Life Coordinator Brings Comfort and Care to Families at George Mark Children’s House Kyle Amsler is the deeply compassionate and highly skilled Child Life Coordinator at George Mark Children’s House. She dedicates her work to creating a safe and nurturing environment for children and families navigating life’s most challenging moments. With…

The Healing Gardens

Plants and Their Superpowers: Horticultural Therapy at George Mark by Mary Purpura, MA, HTR Introduction by Kyle Amsler March is Child Life Month, and to celebrate, I am excited to share an article by George Mark’s skilled and professionally registered Horticultural Therapist, Mary Purpura. The Child Life Program at George Mark Children’s House provides developmental,…

Honoring 20 Years of Student Generosity

Students Celebrate Two Decades of Compassionate Fundraising for George Mark Children’s House  For 20 years, students at Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton, CA, have shown how small actions can create a big difference. Through their Mr. Amador program, they have raised $516,983 for George Mark Children’s House. This incredible effort proves that high schoolers…