At the heart of every great service project lies passion, dedication, and a desire to make a difference. For Reagan Dunham, a senior at Academy of the Holy Names in Albany, NY, these qualities led her to create Hearts and Happiness, a special event for an Outreach Program visit at The Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center. Since September 2024, Reagan has dedicated 20 hours to planning this initiative as part of her senior service project.
“For my project, I wanted more children to be able to feel the happiness and inclusiveness I felt as a camper at Double H,” Reagan shares. “I chose this project because I wanted to work with an organization that aligns with my values of inclusivity, magic, and fun!”
For Reagan, Double H Ranch has been more than just a camp – it has been a source of joy, belonging, and personal growth. After spending five years as a camper and later volunteering in both winter and summer programs, she wanted to give back to the community that has given her so much.
A Valentine’s-Themed Celebration of Friendship
Planning for Hearts and Happiness began last fall when Reagan partnered with Corinne Lafayette, Outreach Program Manager at Double H Ranch, to bring her vision to life. Together, they worked to develop a timeline, set goals, and crafted an engaging experience for the patients receiving treatment at the hospital.
Taking charge of the project’s creative direction, Reagan carefully selected decorations and activities. The event featured hands-on activities such as slime-making, painting picture frames, crafting friendship bracelets, and a photo booth. Her goal was to foster joy and connection, ensuring that every child felt included and uplifted through meaningful interactions and playful moments.
A Heartfelt Day at The Melodies Center
For Corinne, one of the most rewarding moments was watching Reagan set up the event in the Melodies Center Playroom. “This is where all the hours of planning and preparation came together,” Corinne shared. “I think the patients absolutely loved the activities Reagan chose, and I hope she feels incredibly proud of the work she has put into this project!”
Throughout the morning of the event, patients at The Melodies Center stopped by to take part in the activities and connect with volunteers. Both children and their parents enjoyed socializing and engaging in creative fun, finding moments of joy and connection while waiting for procedures or receiving treatment.
Reflecting on the journey, Reagan feels grateful for the opportunity to bring Hearts and Happiness to life. “I am so appreciative of the support I have received in planning this event. From Corinne’s encouragement to the enthusiasm of past counselors, one of whom volunteered to help on his day off, the sense of community has been incredible,” she shares.
The Future is Bright
Reagan’s dedication to Double H doesn’t end with Hearts and Happiness. This summer, she hopes to continue her journey as a Staff in Training (SIT), a leadership and skill building program for individuals aged 17 that provides training and guidance to develop future Double H staff members. Reflecting on her experience, she shares, “Double H always felt like my home and where I became the best version of myself.” Now, she hopes to help create the same magical experiences for campers – ensuring that Double H remains a place where kids can set aside their worries and simply enjoy being kids.
About Double H Ranch’s Outreach Program
The Outreach Program, led by Program Manager Corinne Lafayette, extends the magic of camp beyond the Double H campus, bringing inclusive and engaging programming to hospitals, healthcare facilities, and community spaces. The program aims to meet participants wherever they are. Outreach hospital visits and community events are designed to give children the power of choice in activities, provide respite for caregivers and family members, and create moments that build relationships and foster belonging. To learn more about the program or how to get involved, please visit: doublehranch.org/programs/outreach.