Only the - Cook Children's

Build-A-Bear is a perfect one,” Cychol said. “Build-A-Bear gives
kids an experience they will cherish for the rest of their lives. It
fits perfectly with our promise to improve the health of children
because it takes more than doctors and medication to help kids
feel better. We saw the integration of our two organizations as
an enhancement to our community, and a fun addition to our
medical center.”
Over the next couple of years, a relationship developed
between Cook Children’s and Build-A-Bear, beginning with
Chief Development Bear John Hogan flying from St. Louis to
Fort Worth to visit Cook Children’s, learn about its culture and
determine if a partnership would be a good idea. Hogan returned
home with a glowing report, and the foundation of the relationship
was formed.
“We are very excited to partner with Cook Children’s in bringing
Build-A-Bear Workshop to the medical center,” said Maxine Clark
founder and chief executive bear of Build-A-Bear Workshop.
“When kids are sick or injured, making a new furry friend is a
great way to take their mind off of their treatment and a teddy
bear hug can help them feel better. We’re proud that Build-A-Bear
Workshop can be one of the ‘pawsitive’ experiences that
Cook Children’s offers to the children they help.”
While the additions of the new retail shops will enhance a
family’s stay, they also serve an important purpose in helping fund
Cook Children’s, a not-for-profit organization. All of the stores at
the medical center are owned and operated by Cook Children’s.
So, each time a coffee is purchased at Starbucks and a private
party is held or furry friend is built at Build-A-Bear, that money
feeds directly back into Cook Children’s. By adding these and
other various stores, Cook Children’s will also create jobs, helping
the community from that standpoint.
“Traditional health care administrative types probably would not
incorporate a Build-A-Bear in the business model,” Stan Davis,
vice president of Cook Children’s Facility and Ancillary Services,
said. “A retail pharmacy Sure that makes sense. But a Build-
A-Bear doesn’t fit in the normal DNA of a pediatric health care
organization. But why not That’s what I love about
Cook Children’s. That’s what we’re about. Let a child be a
child. Being sick shouldn’t prevent them from focusing on their
childhood and being a kid.”
To build a bear or plan a party,
call Cook Children’s Build-A-Bear
Workshop at 682-885-2327.
Mon-Fri, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sat, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sun, Noon-6 p.m.
www.cookchildrens.org | Summer 2011 5