Summer Event at the Children's Inn at NIH with Butterfly Books

At The Next Gen Hope, we believe that even the smallest moments of joy can have a lasting impact—especially for children facing difficult health journeys. That’s why we were so excited to return to the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to kick off the summer season with a day full of warmth, creativity, and community.

In partnership with our friends at Butterfly Books, we created a vibrant, summer-themed event for the children and families staying at the Inn. Volunteers read aloud two lively, sunshine-filled stories that transported young imaginations beyond hospital walls and into the world of summer adventures. The room quickly filled with laughter and smiles as children followed along, fully immersed in the magic of storytelling.

After storytime, we rolled up our sleeves for a hands-on craft session where the children painted flower boxes and decorated dreamcatchers. With colorful paints, beads, and brushes in hand, each child brought their own personality to life through art. These creative moments provided a much-needed outlet for expression and a joyful break from medical routines.

To wrap up the event, each child had the chance to select a book to take home—offering not just a story, but a sense of ownership, comfort, and escape. Butterfly Books also generously donated 60 Book Bundles through the Inn’s Thoughtful Treasures program, extending the gift of reading and imagination to many more children at the Inn.

This visit was another meaningful reminder of why we do what we do at The Next Gen Hope. It’s about more than crafts and books—it’s about making kids feel seen, valued, and empowered during some of their most vulnerable moments. We’re incredibly grateful to the Children’s Inn, our partners at Butterfly Books, and most importantly, the amazing kids who inspire us every day with their resilience and spirit.