Jen Rubino

When young people are hospitalized or facing a serious illness, they often feel forgotten and sad. Having experienced these struggles firsthand, Jen Rubino created Cards for Hospitalized Kids (CFHK) to help other young people facing these health challenges. Though her organization began as something only in her community, Jen has turned CFHK into a nationwide effort.

Jen, who is unable to walk due to a childhood illness, manages all aspects of CFHK – from organizing card-making events to connecting with hospitals and families. Through her efforts and those her volunteers, more than 10,000 hospitalized kids and counting have received cards that brought them smiles and joy during a time they needed it the most.