Signature Impact Programs

Signature Impact Programs provide hospitals and community health centers with programs that have long lasting impact on kids and families. Currently, the Joy in Childhood Foundation has four Signature Programs that help bring joy to kids of all ages.

Dogs for Joy™

Dogs for Joy™ brings the joy of dogs to kids undergoing treatment for illness or injury. Research shows that animal assisted therapy can have a significant positive impact on patient pain and recovery, and the Dunkin' Joy in Childhood Foundation works to increase the number of in-resident dogs in hospitals across the country. Dogs for Joy™ differ from volunteer dogs that visit a hospital for short periods of time. These special pups work full-time alongside their human handlers to provide emotional and physical support of patients and are a critical part of a child’s care team.

Dunkin' Prom

Dunkin' Prom provides a prom night experience for teenage patients who due to illness and treatment may miss out on their school proms. The Foundation works with hospital partners to create unforgettable prom night experiences for kids complete with unique themes, event spaces, food, entertainment, photographers, formal wear for patients and of course - donuts!

Dunkin’ Connecting Joy

Dunkin' Connecting Joy helps bring comprehensive gaming programs to hospitals nationwide. Gaming is an excellent way to help hospitalized children stay engaged in a fun activity that's adaptable for all energy and ability levels. This grant program opportunity supports hospitals with equipment, staffing, connectivity, and other relevant needs so that kids can enjoy gaming experiences at their bedside and even play with family and friends back home.

Dunkin’ Joyful Spaces

Hospitals and community health centers are often sterile environments, adding to a need for comfort for pediatric patients. Dunkin’ Joyful Spaces launched in 2022 to help these organizations create and update spaces for kids and their families to escape the traditional hospital setting and enjoy moments of normalcy and fun.