Midwest Youth Services annual fundraiser spotlights kids, kindness
By Marcy Patterson
Photos/Marcy Patterson
The annual Midwest Youth Services Doll-I-Day defied gravity this year, with more than 200 tickets sold for the popular community event held February 15.
The family-friendly fundraiser invites children to bring their dolls or favorite stuffed animals for an afternoon filled with games, crafts and photo booths.
A highlight of the day was the “medical center,” staffed by students from the Illinois College Nursing Program, where children had the opportunity to have their dolls fully checked out and “treated.”
Guests also enjoyed pizza, a candy bar, cupcakes, exciting door prizes and dancing with DJ Troy Armstrong, keeping the energy high throughout the event.
This year’s theme, “Doll-I-Day 2026: Defy Gravity & Let Kindness Lift You,” was inspired by “Wicked” and was brought to life by the MYS cast, who embraced the theme in creative costumes that added to the fun and festive atmosphere.
Funds raised from Doll-I-Day will be used to help offset grant match requirements and to support community training and awareness events, ensuring Midwest Youth Services can continue making a meaningful impact in the community.
Midwest Youth Services aims to divert youth from the juvenile justice and child welfare systems while helping to strengthen and restore families.
