About

A History of Helping

In December 2010, after working as a certified child life specialist in the hospital setting, our founder Terri Hocking realized the importance of helping children cope with life-threatening medical conditions at home, as well as in the hospital.

Terri founded the nonprofit, Courageous Kids, on the belief that it takes both a supportive family and community to help children see past their fears, anxiety, medications, treatments, and pain.

In doing so, we are able to help mitigate the negative effects of stress on a child’s growth and development. The organization hosted their first event for Courageous Kids and their families in 2011.

Courageous Kids plans fun activities and events for Southeast Michigan children with life-threatening medical conditions and their families to provide positive distraction, family bonding, and emotional support for the whole family. It has been our privilege to serve these remarkable children and their families over the past several years. As we inspire hope and help kids cope, we are excited to move forward with the continued support of our communities in Southeast Michigan and surrounding communities.

Member of the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce

Our Staff

Kathryn Strong

Executive Director

kathryn@courageouskidsmi.org

Kathryn joined Courageous Kids in February 2022. Her passion for the organization and mission shines through in her work. She enjoys spending time with & meeting the families, planning fundraisers, and creating opportunities for Courageous Kids to be successful. She has her Master’s degree in Healthcare Management and has worked in healthcare and as a business administrator. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her family, going up north, reading, and continuously learning.

Jamie Mulvenna

Director of Operations

jamie@courageouskidsmi.org

Jamie joined Courageous Kids in February 2020. She enjoys planning events and meeting our wonderful families. Jamie loves serving children and families. She has her Masters in Nonprofit Management, and has worked as a Foster Care Caseworker in Chicago and Detroit. She spends her downtime with her husband and three children.