Justice for Kids® spearheaded a powerful mission of hope on March 19, 2026, as real-life superheroes descended upon Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. In a high-energy collaboration with the Hollywood Police Department (HPD) and Hollywood Fire Rescue (HFR), Justice for Kids® sponsored the “Be Your Own Hero” event, designed to celebrate the incredible resilience of pediatric patients.
The afternoon reached new heights as first responders—swapping their standard duties for superhero-inspired action—rappelled down the hospital’s exterior facade. Patients watched in awe from their windows and the hospital’s Child Life Zone as the “superheroes” waved to them during their descent, a spectacle intended to remind the children that they are the true protagonists of their own recovery stories.
“Every child deserves to be empowered,” said Justin Grosz, Co-Founder of Justice for Kids®. “Justice for Kids® is honored to stand alongside our first responders and leaders in child healthcare to celebrate the resilience of these children, and their families, as they fight their toughest battles with hero-level strength”.
The excitement continued indoors at the Child Life Zone, where Justice for Kids® hosted a celebration for patients and their families. The festivities included snacks, games, and a high-energy community rally atmosphere, where patients had the opportunity to interact directly with the first responders who had just performed the rappelling feat. The children also received and personalized their own superhero capes to symbolize their internal strength.
One patient, Noah, noted that seeing the responders reminded him of his favorite hero, Superman. Another patient, Ana Lara, described the experience as “really cool and fun,” despite the initial thrill of the height.
Caitlin Stella, MPH, CEO of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of the partnership:
“We are grateful to Justice for Kids and our local hometown heroes and first responders for helping to create this fun and special event for our kids. Hollywood Fire Rescue and Police are a critical part of our team here at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, always there for us when we need them. We are grateful for this opportunity for our children and families at the hospital to celebrate them.”
The event served as a poignant reminder that while the first responders may have scaled the building, the real heroes are the children inside facing their health challenges with bravery every day.
