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“This beautifully refurbished gym provides a welcoming and energizing space for kids receiving services and equips our therapists with the tools and environment they need to support meaningful progress every day,” said Dr. Johanna Vidal-Phelan, president and CEO of The Children’s Institute. “Our longstanding partnership with Pirates Charities has already touched thousands of lives, and we are incredibly thankful for their latest investment that is now supporting hundreds more.”
Serving about 500 children each year, Pirates Charities Gym now includes adaptive equipment and sensory-friendly features designed to engage children in physical and occupational therapy. The improvements foster strength, balance and coordination for children with cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, autism, and other developmental disabilities.
The refurbished gym also includes a playful and uplifting mural. Designed in collaboration with Pittsburgh artist Phil Seth, the mural features imagery of the Pirate Parrot and Wilson the Dinosaur forming a heart, where children can get their picture taken when they reach a milestone.
“I am honored to have been chosen to create art in a space meant for children and families who are moving through some really tough moments,” said Seth. “The mascots bring so much warmth and playfulness into the room, and the hot air balloon is meant to lift spirits – inviting children to look up, keep dreaming and imagine new horizons filled with hope and possibility.”
With the Pirates Charities donation, The Children’s Institute also replaced broken or worn equipment such as two Universal Exercise Units (UEUs) for muscle strengthening and bungee cords for movement training. Additionally, more sensory-friendly LED lighting replaced the fluorescent lights, instantly creating an environment where children are less distracted and can stay better engaged in therapy activities.
“The therapy team, patients and families are very excited about the refurbished space,” said Theresa Miller-Ferri, regional director of physical therapy services at The Children’s Institute. “We are very grateful to the Pirates Charities for their continued support of our programs and the children and families we serve.”
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