Superhero Day at UPMC Children's Harrisburg with the Harrisburg Senators

HARRISBURG, Pa. (Apr. 25, 2025) – UPMC and UPMC Pinnacle Foundation celebrated Superhero Day today, to honor the world-class pediatric health care provided at UPMC Children's in Harrisburg. The celebration held at UPMC Children’s Harrisburg included photo opportunities, a creative craft station, goodie bags filled with surprises, Senators swag giveaways, and a heartwarming unit parade that brought joy to everyone involved. The interactive activities with Senator players were organized by Child Life. 

"We understand that hospitals can be a scary place for children and are constantly looking for opportunities to bring smiles to their faces," said Matt Connors, director of development at UPMC Pinnacle Foundation. "It's also a day to recognize our superheroes, the staff who selflessly care for our youngest patients." 

Superhero Day honors health care superheroes and engages the youngest patients in fun activities while providing invaluable resources to those in need.  

Contributions to the UPMC Child Advocacy Center of Central Pa. through the Joe Allegrini Children’s Hero Fund helps 1,700 children from 17 counties receive critical support after experiencing abuse or neglect. Providing essential services like translation, medical examinations, advocacy resources, and therapy sessions helps these young survivors heal and reclaim their strength.   

Also in attendance were Kingsley, of Kingsley’s Closet, one of UPMC Pinnacle Foundation’s youngest donors, Calvin and Hobbs, volunteer services therapy pets, who looked adorable in their superhero costumes and Pete Hayden of PlayGowns. HERSHEY'S Ice Cream treated superhero staff on the unit to delicious superhero sundaes. 

Contributions to the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation Child Life Fun directly helps pediatric patients receive life-changing medical care they might not otherwise afford, from specialized treatments to therapeutic equipment and transportation support. From the strong patients facing illnesses and injuries, and passionate parent advocates, to its compassionate staff and world-class innovators, UPMC is excited to honor all superheroes.  

To learn more about the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, visit upmcpinnaclefoundation.org 

Photo Cutlines:  

Matt Connors and Stephanie Benamor, UPMC Pinnacle Foundation staff, dressed as Spider-Man and Elastigirl and interacting with Aari, UPMC Children’s Harrisburg patient.

Michael Cuevas and Maxwell Romero, Harrisburg Senators players joined Aari, UPMC Children’s Harrisburg patient for an activity 

Matt Connors, director of development at UPMC Pinnacle Foundation dressed as Spiderman