Yvonne Schreifels, whose youngest child is currently hospitalized, sees special hospital entertainment as a lifesaver for her family. She says it gives her a chance to be a family and do activities with the siblings that otherwise wouldn’t happen in a hospital setting. One example is the excitement her daughter experienced when 3M scientists visited and brought ingredients to make goo. The slimy substance is designed to bounce, be stretched and break with enough pressure. The experiment left the kids awestruck and giggling.

Elizabeth Dunlap, lean six sigma black belt with 3M Traffic Safety and Security, started the connection with 3M and the Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a few years ago. Now, with a grant from 3Mgives, the group brings activities like the sticky goo to the hospital. This year 3M’s Visiting Wizards joined the event.

Elizabeth says her relationship with Children’s goes back to high school, adding that service was a huge part of her high school life. “It was instilled in me,” she says. “We’re fortunate enough to give back to people, whether it is their health or financially. Kids have always had a special place in my heart.”