"Best Day Ever!" PPV's Annual Build-A-Bear Event is a hit for Children with Vision Loss

Eleven children with permanent vision loss had the chance to make their own stuffed bear buddy this weekend, thanks to a partnership between Partners for Pediatric Vision (PPV) and Vistas for Children Inc. The two organizations came together to host our annual Build-A-Bear event at the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance.

Junior Vistas Volunteer, Lilly, with PPV's Ximena

Our children with vision loss were paired up with a Junior Vistas peer volunteer, who guided them to each station to create their very own Build-A-Bear. The Junior Vistas described each experience, including details about the clothing and accessories and helped their visually impaired friend stuff, wash and dress their bear.

The children were looking forward to this event for months and one of our attendees, Jose M., described it as “the best day ever!” PPV's Family Specialist Heather was there to greet the family.

Kenya M.’s family shared, "This was a beautiful event. It was emotional and sweet seeing Kenya's bear with glasses and a white cane like Kenya's. Thank you PPV and Vistas for inviting us.”

Partners for Pediatric Vision is grateful to Vistas for sponsoring this heartwarming experience where children with a variety of visual conditions make new friends, and their families enjoy being together. Family events like our annual Build-A-Bear are made possible with support from our community partners, individual donors and foundation grants.