Ally Liller and Jordyn Rayner, members of Kids Rainbow, share their experiences as part of a youth advisory council at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s in Cleveland, Ohio. They discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic affected their lives, from isolation and boredom to the impact on their school and sports activities. The conversation also highlights their efforts in advocating for community needs, including mental health, food insecurity, and financial literacy, and emphasizes the importance of youth voices in shaping future policies and rebuilding communities.

Ally Liller and Jordyn Rainer are active members of Kids Rainbow, a youth advisory council at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s in Cleveland, Ohio. Both high school seniors, Ally and Jordyn have been involved in Kids Rainbow after being encouraged by friends who recognized their passion for community engagement and making a positive impact.

Ally Liller is a senior at Magnificat High School in Rocky River, Ohio. She became involved with Kids Rainbow after a friend recommended the program, recognizing her enthusiasm for advocacy and service. Through her work with the council, Ally has gained valuable experience in connecting with her community and using her voice to make a difference.

Jordyn Rainer is a senior at Trinity High School in Garfield Heights, Ohio. Similar to Ally, Jordyn was introduced to Kids Rainbow through a friend who suggested the program after hearing her interest in hands-on community involvement. Jordyn has used her time with the youth advisory council to explore how young people can influence change in their communities, especially through creative projects like PhotoVoice, a project that allowed her and fellow council members to document and reflect on the changes they’ve seen in their communities since the pandemic.

Together, Ally and Jordyn are helping shape the future of healthcare and youth advocacy through their work with Kids Rainbow, using their voices to inspire positive change in the Cleveland area.