OrthoBaby’s Partnerships with Nonprofits to Create Adaptive Doll Walkers

At OrthoBaby, our mission has always been about building inclusion, representation, and support for families navigating orthopedic challenges. Through our products, we aim to normalize orthopedic devices and celebrate the unique stories of children and families around the world. Recently, we had the privilege of partnering with two nonprofit organizations: A Doll Like Me and Kids on the Block Ottawa. Our doll walkers supported their missions of representation, inclusion, and education.

Below is some more information about what these organizations do, the amazing work they accomplish, and how OrthoBaby has been able to support their incredible missions.

Kids on the Block Ottawa: Educating Through Puppetry

Kids on the Block Ottawa is an organization that uses puppetry to promote diversity, inclusion, and understanding among school-age children. Their performances, led by high school volunteers, educate middle school students about disabilities, differences, and the importance of empathy. By engaging young audiences in meaningful conversations, the organization is helping to create a more accepting and inclusive society.  More information about Kids on the Block Ottawa can be found at https://www.kidsontheblockottawa.com.

How we helped

When Kids on the Block Ottawa decided to introduce a new puppet character named Mary Margaret, a woman who uses a walker, they reached out to OrthoBaby for help. Mary Margaret’s character would premier in upcoming performances, sharing her story and educating students about living with a disability. However, creating a walker that would perfectly fit a puppet presented a unique design challenge.

We worked closely with the team at Kids on the Block Ottawa to understand Mary Margaret’s dimensions and needs. After multiple design iterations, we crafted a custom walker scaled to fit the puppet while maintaining the realistic look and functionality required for performances. The result was a beautifully crafted doll walker that not only enhances Mary Margaret’s character but also helps audiences connect with her story.  You can see below how much larger Mary Margaret's walker is compared to our walker for an 18-inch doll.

Through this collaboration, we’ve been able to support Kids on the Block Ottawa in their mission to educate and inspire empathy in young audiences. By bringing Mary Margaret’s story to life, we hope to help children see differences not as barriers but as opportunities to learn and grow.

A Doll Like Me: Representation in Every Detail

Founded by Amy Jandrisevits, A Doll Like Me creates custom dolls that reflect the unique characteristics and medical journeys of children with differences. These handmade dolls serve as a source of comfort and representation for children who may not see themselves reflected in mainstream toys. Amy’s work has touched countless families worldwide, showing children that their uniqueness is something to be celebrated.  You can find out more about Doll Like Me at https://adolllikeme.com.

How we helped

A Doll Like Me bought one of our doll walkers to pair with a custom doll, using it to create a meaningful representation for a little girl who uses a walker. The walker mirrors the functionality and appearance of a real pediatric walker, making it both realistic and adorable when paired with one of Amy's dolls.

The impact of this collaboration goes beyond the doll itself. The little girl who received this custom doll and walker now has a toy that truly reflects her life, building a sense of pride and normalcy. For OrthoBaby, it was a reminder of why we do what we do.

The Power of Partnerships

Our collaborations with A Doll Like Me and Kids on the Block Ottawa underscore the importance of partnerships in creating meaningful change. These organizations are doing incredible work to encourage representation and inclusion, and we are happy to play a role in supporting their missions.

Why These Partnerships Matter

Representation is vital for building confidence, self-esteem, and understanding in children. When children see themselves reflected in toys, characters, or educational materials, it validates their experiences and helps them feel seen. For children without disabilities, exposure to inclusive toys and stories fosters empathy and breaks down stereotypes.

By creating adaptive doll walkers for these nonprofits, OrthoBaby is not only helping children feel represented but also contributing to a broader conversation about inclusion and acceptance. These partnerships highlight the unique ways that toys can be used as tools for education, support, and connection.

What’s Next?

At OrthoBaby, we are committed to continuing our work with nonprofits and advocacy groups to expand the reach of inclusive designs. Whether it’s through creating custom products or supporting educational initiatives, we believe in the power of collaboration to make a difference.

How You Can Get Involved

If you’re inspired by the missions of A Doll Like Me and Kids on the Block Ottawa, there are many ways to support their work:

• Donate: Both organizations rely on donations to continue their impactful work. Consider making a contribution to support their missions.
• Share Their Stories: Help spread awareness by sharing information about these organizations on social media or with your community.
• Partner: If you’re part of a nonprofit or advocacy group with a similar mission, reach out to OrthoBaby to explore partnership opportunities.