The Support Staff Professional’s (SSP) Volunteer Committee recently held their annual UTMB Children’s Birthday Party celebration. The children received beads, stuffed animals, treats and custom-made goodie bags from the volunteers as well as the opportunity to participate in various arts and crafts projects.

Valarie Zimmerman and Kym Howard, co-chairs of the SSP Volunteer Committee, worked for several months planning the party which took place in the Pediatric Unit and PICU team room.

Volunteers Florence McMillian Frost, Sherri Walker, Mary Ellen Beaupre, Paula Gabriles, Melanie Loving, Susie Schexnaider, Michelle Garza, Kori Zaba and Judy Wolf joined hands to make this annual event a success for all.

Kristen Gerhard, child life specialist, escorted the SSP volunteers into the children’s rooms to make the gift presentations. Toys that didn’t find a home were donated to the speech therapist to use for gifts during their upcoming sessions.

“It was such a joy to watch all the fun and smiles. The giggles heard passed around the joy to all, even the hospital staff had smiles,” said Frost, support staff professional publicity chair. “Thanks to all of the SSP Volunteer Committee members and the SSP membership who also assisted with the party.”