Kiwanis and Beads of Courage
Together making healing happen for children and teens coping with serious illness.
Beads of Courage is a non-profit organization that helps children coping with serious illness record, tell and own their story of courage. Through the Beads of Courage Program, children receive colorful beads that commemorate their moments of courage while receiving treatment for a serious illness in a powerful, visual way. Every bead we give is a dose of narrative medicine that strengthens the experience of human caring.
We partner with children’s hospitals around the world and inspire caring nurses and child life specialists who provide Beads of Courage daily for their patients to strengthen their resilience, coping, and emotional well-being. We provide every hospital with the beads they need to help kids through Beads of Courage. We need the help of Kiwanis today to give hope and honor the courage of kids we support.
Give hope and honor the courage of children and teens coping with serious illness in one of these meaningful ways.
Carry a Bead Program Kiwanis Kit
The Carry a Bead Program connects caring individuals with Beads of Courage members like YOU through an intentional act of caring as they make a commitment to Carry a Bead in your honor. Share your experience by texting “CAB” to 520-344-7668. The person who carried this bead in your honor was recruited by the Kiwanis, a partner in caring of Beads of Courage.
Celtic Knot
The Celtic Knot Bead represents connection and belonging. The beginning and the end are woven together, just as our life experiences weave together over time. We hope your Celtic Knot Bead reminds you of the special connections you have to the people and community that help you feel cared for and loved.
Origami Crane Bead
The crane is a favorite subject of traditional paper folding – origami. Today, the practice of creating origami cranes has come to symbolize a wish for peace, healing and happiness. It is said that if you fold 1,000 origami cranes your wishes will come true. Think of your origami crane bead as a wish waiting to take flight. Dream big.
Courage Charm
Each symbol serves as a gentle reminder of three truths we must remember:
Heart: Always be good to yourself
Star: Star inspired. You are one of kind. The world needs you
Flower: Take time to tend to the joys we experience through friendship