Ontario Construction News staff writer
Every spring, the Help Kids Shine campaign lights up Niagara with a message of hope, inclusion, and action. More than just a fundraiser, the campaign raises awareness and critical funds to support children with developmental, physical, and communicative delays — and their families — through the exceptional care provided by Niagara Children’s Centre.
Donations received during Help Kids Shine directly fuel therapy sessions, educational support, and life-changing programs that empower children to reach their full potential. It’s a campaign built on compassion and community — and it’s changing lives, one child at a time.
One of those children is four-year-old Aubrey, who is being featured this year as a Help Kids Shine ambassador.
Aubrey has a smile that lights up a room and the determination to match it. She recently started junior kindergarten and is the youngest of five children — and the only girl — in a lively home filled with the energy of four older brothers. Smart, social, and endlessly curious, she loves school, building blanket forts in the living room, and swimming — her greatest passion. This summer, she’s excited to join Challenger Baseball and make new friends.
But Aubrey’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. When her family first turned to Niagara Children’s Centre, they were still navigating an uncertain path.
“At the time, we didn’t have a confirmed diagnosis. Cerebral Palsy was suspected, but not official,” said her father, Chase, who is also the publisher of Ontario Construction News. “It was overwhelming. You’re suddenly facing a future filled with unknowns.”
Despite a short wait to access services, the family found comfort in the Centre’s knowledgeable and caring staff.
“Our first physiotherapist helped us understand what to expect and guided us with incredible compassion,” Chase recalls. “Everyone at the Centre has been warm and welcoming. Aubrey’s current physiotherapist, Julie, has been amazing — thoughtful, supportive, and deeply knowledgeable.”
Aubrey initially received weekly physiotherapy. Since starting school, her services are more limited, but she continues to benefit from physiotherapy and previously received occupational therapy for seating and mobility support, including help with her wheelchair. These services have made a world of difference in her ability to participate more fully at home, in school, and in her community.
Niagara Children’s Centre is the region’s primary provider of rehabilitation and support services for children and youth with delays and disabilities. Their family-centred approach offers physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language services, augmentative and alternative communication, therapeutic recreation, and more.
The Help Kids Shine campaign ensures that these services remain accessible to the families who need them. When you give, you’re helping to provide the tools and support needed for children like Aubrey to shine.
How You Can Support Help Kids Shine
- Donate: Every contribution helps fund therapy, education, and specialized services.
- Join an Event: Sign up for Niagara Strikes Back, a family-friendly 10-pin bowling fundraiser presented by BrokerLink Insurance. Choose from two time slots (5 to 7 p.m. or 7 to 9 p.m.).
- Shop & Support: Make a purchase from participating businesses, with a portion going toward the campaign.
- Get Involved: Know a local business that wants to help? Contact Pam Sharp at pam.sharp@niagarachildrenscentre.com.
And this year, Ontario Construction News is proud to step up in support: From September 1st to May 31st, $1 from every Construction Services Procurement (CSP) advertisement will be donated to Niagara Children’s Centre. Click here for more details
Aubrey’s story is just one among many, but it’s a powerful reminder of why this campaign matters. With your support, Help Kids Shine will continue to brighten the future for children across Niagara.
