03/07/2026
🌟 Behind the Curtain at ChildServe’s Bubble Ball® 🌟
Individual who Received Services at ChildServe Lights Up the Bubble Ball Stage ✨
Every year, more than 130 models and performers light up the Bubble Ball® runway – each a volunteer from right here in Iowa. Many are individuals who currently receive support at ChildServe, or who have in the past, now returning to share their strength, creativity and unique talents through their performances.
For Kyrie Severson, stepping onto the Bubble Ball stage is especially meaningful. After receiving services at ChildServe as a child, she now returns as a volunteer – celebrating her growth, reflecting how far she’s come, radiating confidence, resilience and joy that inspire everyone around her.
At age three, Kyrie resided in Russia before her mom, Jilann, adopted her. Kyrie was diagnosed with visual, auditory, and occupational disabilities, causing her to have developmental delays in language, social skills, and cognitive abilities. When she was four years old, Kyrie started her journey at ChildServe, where her family partnered with a team of expert therapists to help support her goals and development.
Through vision and occupational therapy, Kyrie worked hard to build skills and grow in confidence. Over time, she met her goals and graduated from services – and today, she is a thriving young adult.
“I was able to improve my vision challenges and coordination, helping me live a more independent lifestyle,” said Kyrie. “I can drive, participate in sports, ride a bike, sew, read, and do pretty much whatever I set my mind to. I have a job and my own apartment. I attribute a lot of these victories to my time in therapy at ChildServe. The therapies at ChildServe have enhanced my life – and without that help, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Now in her fifth year of volunteering for Bubble Ball, Kyrie participates alongside the Central Iowa American Sewing Guild in design, construction and modeling – continuing to give back to ChildServe’s mission through her creative talents and passion for helping others.
“If I can help someone achieve any goal that is meaningful to them, I want to be a part of it,” said Kyrie. “Seeing all the excitement and fun while supporting ChildServe’s mission makes me so happy. ChildServe was a big help in giving me a great life, and it’s such an honor to be part of something that helps give that to others, too.”
Kyrie’s mom, Jilann, shared that Bubble Ball holds a special place in their hearts.
“Bubble Ball is an amazing show, filled with excitement, entertainment and philanthropy,” said Jilann. “I’d known about ChildServe for many years, but I didn’t truly understand their full impact until Kyrie needed services. Helping kids and spreading the word about how ChildServe supports children of all abilities feels incredibly meaningful. It’s wonderful to be able to give back through Kyrie’s involvement with Bubble Ball.”
Kyrie’s caring personality and attention to detail help designs truly come to life on the Bubble Ball stage. In recent years, she has modeled standout creations, including the Space Girls from Out of This World (2022), the 1950s Tea Party Dresses from Iconic Eras (2024) and the Australian Animals from Wild Wonders (2025), leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Keep lighting up that stage, Kyrie!
Join Kyrie and ChildServe on Saturday, April 18, at the Iowa Events Center for a night of glitz and glamour as Bubble Ball returns for its 16th year with a brand-new theme – Starstruck. Grab your tickets today and explore sponsorship opportunities at https://www.childserve.org/bubbleball/sponsors/.
