OZH Foundation supports preschooler in classroom

Published 4:00 am Wednesday, November 11, 2026

For preschooler Riley Jo Burke, participating in school activities with her class can require a little extra support. Thanks to grant funding secured by the Ozarks Healthcare Foundation, in partnership with Ozarks Healthcare Therapies and a Foundation fund established by David and Rhonda Zechman, Riley Jo now has a specialized Leckey PAL Classroom Chair designed to support her needs and help her participate more comfortably in classroom activities.

Riley has spina bifida, a condition that can affect mobility and positioning. Recognizing the importance of helping her participate in daily classroom activities, Ozarks Healthcare Therapies worked with the Ozarks Healthcare Foundation to pursue grant funding for the specialized chair.

the foundation’s ability to seek funding for equipment such as the Leckey PAL Classroom Chair helps connect children and families with resources that support their individual needs beyond the therapy setting. With appropriate positioning and support, the chair can help Riley participate more comfortably in classroom routines alongside her peers.

“Riley’s had spina bifida since she was born,” said Abbi Burke, Riley’s mother. “We had to have a separate table to join the other classroom tables before the Leckey PAL Chair, but now she can just be like the other kids.”

Through collaboration between Ozarks Healthcare Therapies and the foundation, the grant-funded equipment is helping make everyday school experiences more accessible for Riley Jo and supporting her ability to learn, grow and engage with her classmates.

Ozarks Healthcare Foundation staff and Riley’s physical therapist, Bethany Underwood of Ozarks Healthcare Therapies, recently presented Riley with her new chair at school.

“The Ozarks Healthcare Foundation is proud to help make resources like this available to children and families in our community,” said Josh Reeves, Ozarks Healthcare vice president of development and advocacy. “By working alongside our staff and community members to identify needs and pursue grant opportunities, we can help provide specialized equipment that makes a meaningful difference in a child’s daily life. We’re grateful for the opportunity to support Riley and help her participate more fully in her classroom experience.”

The Ozarks Healthcare Foundation supports Ozarks Healthcare through charitable giving for medical technology and equipment, community wellness, prevention and other services, as well as renovation and new facilities.

To learn more or make a donation, visit www.ozarkshealthcare.com/support-us/foundation or call 417-853-5200.