Building a Future of Possibilities: The Endowment Funding OZ

Picture this : a circle of toddlers, their laughter filling the air. E’lio claps along to the “Hello” song, Adam eagerly reaches for a picture book, Leo waves his hands three times, mirroring his teachers as they shout, “Hooray!”

At first glance, this scene might resemble a typical preschool classroom—backpacks neatly hung in cubbies, a light table glowing in one corner, a pretend play area in another. Bright mats form a cozy space for circle time. But this classroom is anything but ordinary.

Strategically placed specialized outlets ensure that children connected to ventilators can join their classmates with ease. The dolls and stuffed animals they cuddle sport g-tubes and orthotics, just like many of the kids who hold them close. This is no conventional preschool—this is Ranken Jordan’s Optimization Zone (OZ), nestled within the hospital itself.

OZ began in February of 2022 as a small initiative aimed at ensuring children in the crucial developmental ages of 0–5 spent more time engaged in play and social activities rather than confined to hospital beds.  Initially the space for OZ was carved out in a corner of a therapy gym but it quickly became evident that patients thrived when given the opportunity to interact with one another and more room was needed.

Plans grew for what the program could become and, with the support of over 500 donors, more than $2 million was raised to give OZ a permanent home within Ranken Jordan.

The new OZ space opened in December 2024 and is dedicated to learning.  Carefully designed to be free from distracting hospital noises and activity.  The renovation created two classrooms full of natural light with plenty of floor space to explore —whether crawling, walking, or taking those first tentative steps.

Every detail was planned with young patients in mind: floors with specialized outlets for ventilators and medical equipment, sanitation stations, changing tables and a potty training-ready bathroom.  Thoughtful touches like cozy reading nooks, backpack cubbies, and engaging play zones complete the space ensuring children experience the joys of exploration, learning, and  connection.

The profound impact of OZ resonated deeply with longtime Ranken Jordan supporters Dawn and Mike Andrew. Dr. Dawn Andrew, chair of the quality committee of the hospital’s board of directors, has spent her career as a pediatric hospitalist, witnessing firsthand the unintended consequences of long-term hospitalization on young children. From the moment she learned about OZ, she knew it was a transformative program—one that could change lives.

Inspired by the joy and progress they witnessed, the Andrews became dedicated advocates for OZ, spending time reading and playing with its young participants. One child in particular stood out—Jack. His journey at Ranken Jordan was full of firsts: the first time he crawled, the first time he pulled himself up on the light table, and, soon enough,  the first time he walked. After graduating from OZ, Jack continues to thrive, supported by Ranken Jordan’s partnership with local education liaisons.

Moved by the incredible impact of the program, Dawn and Mike Andrew made the first gift to the OZ Endowment, creating the Andrew Family Fund. This fund will ensure that OZ remains a place of growth, play, and discovery for generations to come. Their gift has inspired others to join them in supporting the OZ Endowment.

Through this enduring generosity, OZ will continue to bring hope, joy, and crucial developmental opportunities to the children who need them most.