Circle of Blue is a philanthropic group made up of women who support programs for children and families at Kentucky Children’s Hospital through an annual gift. These women form an unforgettable bond through their shared passion for giving back, which is celebrated with group events and exclusive volunteer opportunities.

Click here to read Circle of Blue member testimonials.

Circle of Blue wouldn’t be here today without its trailblazing founding mothers. Ellen Cornett, Suzanne Elliott, Mechealle Hanks, Missy Jarvis, Amy Mellinger, Stacey Richardson, Dr. Kim Rosenstein, Ann Smith, Dr. Carol Steltenkamp, Ann H.M. Thomas and Jane Warner formed the group in 2011. They were driven by their desire to lend support to the well-being of UK HealthCare’s youngest patients.

The group also found a special partner organization to support their mission: a fine jewelry company with a strong philanthropic drive. Circle of Blue celebrates this partnership through annual “charming” events, when sustained members are gifted a new charm to add to their Circle of Blue charm bracelet.

UK HealthCare and Kentucky Children’s Hospital impact thousands of lives each year. Circle of Blue members have invested in projects that enhance the patient experience, including:

• Circle of Blue Pediatric Sedation and Procedure Unit: A child-friendly space to support and comfort patients and families awaiting care
• Circle of Blue Registration Desk at Kentucky Children’s Hospital Acute Care: A warm and welcoming intake space for patients, families and visitors to Kentucky Children’s Hospital inpatient units
• Circle of Blue Endowed Child Life Specialist for the Makenna David Pediatric Emergency Center: A specially trained healthcare professional who provides developmentally appropriate emotional support during emergency care

The Circle of Blue Endowed Child Life Specialist for the Makenna David Pediatric Emergency Center was made possible by a special fundraising campaign celebrating Circle of Blue’s 10-year anniversary. This endowment ensures that children who arrive for emergency care will always have a compassionate ally by their side.

Learn more about child life specialists at Kentucky Children’s Hospital.