Gold Star Family Zoo Day with Teledyne FLIR Defense Volunteers and Tuesday's Children

We often say that Teledyne FLIR Defense's work is "more than a job, it's a mission." Our company culture is grounded not only in pride for the solutions we create, but appreciation of those who protect our nation and allies. That sense of honor and gratitude is what makes our partnership with Tuesday's Children resonate: it gives back directly to families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty, and allows for Defense employees to participate with hands-on volunteer opportunities.

The latest partnership event was our second annual Blue at the Zoo Day, held October 4th at the Baltimore Zoo near our Elkridge facility. Five Defense employees and their families came out to help set up and run the event, which gave Gold Star Families a fun day out filled with animal trails, group activities, and even a visiting armadillo (that would be Julio). 

Families traveled from all over the Baltimore, New Jersey and Virginia area to attend, with several driving in from states as far away as North Carolina and Louisiana. These sponsored activity days are not only an opportunity for families to have a great time; they're also a rare chance for connection with those who have shared a similar loss.

This year, Defense employees split between assisting kids on their tour through the zoo (free babysitting!) while parents were given a "breathing room" activity through a guided paint project.

"It was amazing and refreshing to reconnect with other survivors I only get to see at events such as these," explained one of the parents traveling in to attend. "This grateful mama's heart is full! We truly are blessed because of you." 

After coming together for lunch and an interactive Meet and Greet with Julio, families were free to explore the zoo for the rest of the day, including the Halloween trail activities. All of this was possible thanks for Teledyne FLIR Defense's exclusive sponsorship. 

Thanks to our fantastic Defense volunteers (from left to right ) Lev Kravtsov, Tabitha Blankenbiller, Diana Nichols, Zack Fuller, and Melvin McNair for donating your sunny Maryland Saturday to help out with this year's event!

Interested in volunteering with Tuesday's Children? Check out current Youth Mentorship positions around the country.