STEP OUT OF THE SHADOWS.
TOGETHER.
Shadow Shine builds connections between the siblings of children with special healthcare needs.
Our Story
Michael and Katie Belvin are parents to two incredible children, Evie and Charlotte. As someone with special healthcare needs, Evie often received more attention than her sibling. Charlotte began displaying emotional distress and verbalizing how she felt in the shadows of her sister. One night over dinner with close friends, an idea was formed: Shadow Shine.
Shadow Shine is a 501(C) organization providing siblings in the shadows a chance to feel loved and special. Through our Scout and Sidekick Program, these children are partnered with young adults (high school students) who have lived through similar family situations. Their unique understanding allows these Scouts the chance to provide impactful guidance and lifelong bonds to children who could benefit from more focused attention.
SCOUT AND SIDEKICK PROGRAM
Through our unique Scout and Sidekick program, siblings of children with medical needs (Sidekicks) can find guidance, attention, and friendship with their older counterparts (Scouts). Scouts will develop a connection with the Sidekicks to ensure the young men and women feel as important as their siblings.
While there will be planned large group outings, Scouts and Sidekicks will also have the opportunity to connect as often as they’d like. This enables Scouts and Sidekicks to decide how they spend time together, making sure they’re able to enjoy the activities they personally love.
This two year program will naturally connect entire families with children who have medical needs to one another. As long-lasting bonds are built, this optional extension of the program will create opportunities for support throughout the family.
Our mission is to serve as a catalyst for siblings of children with special healthcare needs by making them feel heard and seen in a safe space with support, meaningful relationships and leadership opportunities.
HOW TO BECOME A SCOUT
At Shadow Shine, we are always looking for new Scouts who have the experience of having grown up with a special needs sibling to guide our Sidekicks. If you are interested in developing a friendship that will allow overlooked siblings to feel special and are in high school, we’d love you to complete the form linked through the button below.
Once we receive your form request, a member from our team will reach out for an interview to gather more information. After a review is completed, including a background check, we will move ahead looking for the perfect Sidekick match for you and set up a meeting!
HOW TO BECOME A SIDEKICK
If you have a child you believe is ready to step out of the shadow and develop a connection that will help them build the skills they need to thrive, please fill out the form linked through the button below.
Once we receive your information, a member of our team will reach out to set up a conversation with you and your child. With your unique situation understood, we will move forward finding the perfect Scout for your son or daughter and set up a meeting for the three (or four) of you.
Please note, your child’s safety is of the greatest concern to us. As such, all Scout applicants will go through a background check and an interview process before becoming an official Scout of Shadow Shine.
CONTACT
Whether you are interested in becoming a Scout or Sidekick or donating to Shadow Shine, the first step is to contact us by filling out the form below. If you know you want to apply, please use the links above to the individual applications. We are so thankful for your interest and look forward to connecting!