Fostering Inclusivity Starlight's Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Fostering Inclusivity

At Starlight, our values guide every decision we make - from how we support kids and families navigating serious illness to how we build a workplace where everyone belongs.  Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring our programs, partnerships, and team create a sense of belonging for all.   

RezenBarbie2 — Rezen, 10, Severe Aplastic Anemia

Delivering On Our Mission  

We are intentional about meeting unique needs and designing programs that are adaptable and reflect the kids and families we serve, ensuring that no matter their background or personal experience, they can receive moments of happiness when they need it most.

See Our Impact

Expanding Access and Representation  

Over the past five years, Starlight has expanded access to programs for 3 million kids at 824 hospital partners by:

Providing programs that support hospitalized kids of all ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds such as adaptive hospital gowns, Halloween costumes and wheelchair covers .
Offer diverse representation in gifted toys and books, program design, and events, so kids see themselves reflected in the experiences we create  
Ensure equitable access to resources for under-resourced hospitals, giving them early access to beneficial programs   
Provide programs in additional languages to represent multiple cultures and ethnicities  
Celebrating and highlighting our diverse community of patients, fundraisers and donors

In 2024, Starlight's equitable program distribution reached: 

of hospitals serving medically underserved and vulnerable populations 
of programs featuring products designed for multicultural, multilingual, disabled and LGBTQ+ patients, as well as those focused on STEAM and clinical education.

Creating a Culture of Belonging  

We know that a diverse and representative team strengthens our ability to serve hospitalized children and their families. That's why we are:  

Governed by a Board and operated by a staff that reflect the communities we serve, ensuring diverse perspectives shape our strategy.   
Providing ongoing training on communication, psychological safety, and emotional intelligence to create an environment of trust and respect.   
Deepening connections to our mission with employees and reinforcing the power of collective impact.   
Creating space for employee voices, where ideas, feedback, and innovation help shape how we work and grow.

When we prioritize inclusion in everything we do, we build a stronger, more supportive community – one where every child, family and team member feels seen, valued and has a true sense of belonging. 