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Tracy Huffman is one of the talented singers who volunteers regularly for the Thursday evening Skyline Café at Mott. Her husband, Bob Huffman, accompanies her on guitar. Patients and their families can spend the evening enjoying music, food, and the spectacular view, which includes the construction site for the new U-M C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital and Women’s Hospital seen here over Tracy’s shoulder.

An evening of music helps soothe patients and families

Rays from the setting sun stream through the windows. The relaxing melodies of a beautiful voice accompanied by guitar music fill the room. The scent of fresh coffee makes those in attendance feel like they are at a coffeehouse. This scene describes a typical Thursday evening at the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Families are invited to the free “Skyline Café” located in the Mott Family Resource Center.

Seven days a week, the resource center provides a comfortable, relaxing environment where families can use the computers, find educational materials, attend classes and relax. On Thursday nights, it is truly an oasis where families can enjoy the music and food.

Music therapist Bob Huffman started the weekly performances in 2007 with the support of co-workers Sarah Mellifont and Syma Kahn. Local singers and musicians volunteer their time. Ann Arbor’s famous Zingerman’s Coffee Company generously donates coffee and coffee cake each week, and the Family Resource Center provides pizza.

Find out how you can support the Family Resource Center here. Or send an e-mail to the Family Resource Center.

Last December, Kim Barker, Manager, Community Relations, University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, remembers worrying that there would be a decrease in toy donations from previous years because of these tight economic times. Barker’s department approves and accepts all of the material donations that help patients and families. She did not have to worry for long. Individuals, businesses and organizations donated in a variety of ways. While the needs are ongoing, Barker says the generosity was very touching. “It is so moving to see community groups, individuals and grateful families continue to support Mott.”

Northwest Airlines’ Pilots for Kids is one of the groups with a long history of giving during the holidays. The group is pictured here in the Mott Hospital lobby during their December 2008 visit when they continued their tradition of donating a gift for every patient.

Congratulations to the dedicated University of Michigan students who have been working hard since before the start of the school year to guarantee another successful Dance Marathon. The 30-hour marathon on March 21 and 22 was the culmination of months of work. We thank the Dance Marathon organizers, dancers and sponsors for their commitment to Mott patients and families!

University of Michigan Dance Marathon has a wonderful history of funding programs at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital and Beaumont Hospital. Two of the programs—Mott Field Day (top) and tree climbing—are shown here.

Want to Help?
Community Relations receives inquiries from individuals and groups who want to find out how their time and donations can be most helpful to the patients and families at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Community Relations receives monetary donations, gift cards, and approves and accepts material donations for patients and families. They also coordinate groups that are interested in service projects, tours or arranging a special event for Mott patients.

For more information, please visit us here.