Long before Judd Zebersky became a leader in the toy industry, he and his wife, Laura, made a decision that would touch thousands of lives. They wanted to use their business to make all children smile.

Judd and Laura Zebersky donated $2 million to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, contributing to the “Catch the Love” capital campaign, an expansion project estimated at $170 million that expanded the facility from four to eight floors. They funded two named spaces inside the hospital: the Pediatric Emergency Department Registration Area and the Outpatient Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit. They also developed a custom Lotsy Dotsy doll in honor of the hospital’s resident clown, made specifically to comfort young patients during hospital stays.

A hospital built for healing through play

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital treats everything from minor illnesses to complex cardiac cases. Its mission centers on ensuring pediatric care is available regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

The facility completed an expansion in 2022, growing from four floors to eight. The Zeberskys’ $2 million contribution helped fund that construction project, which added state-of-the-art patient rooms, cardiac hybrid operating rooms, and a Child Life Zone designed to help children heal through activities and entertainment.

The hospital’s Pediatric Emergency Department Registration Area now carries the Zebersky name. So does the Outpatient Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit.

“Laura and I firmly support the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital mission,” Judd Zebersky said. “Putting a smile on children’s faces, especially when they are at the hospital, is at the heart of everything Laura and I do in business, family, and life.”

Lotsy Dotsy: The doll that changes hospital stays

One project stands out. Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital has a resident clown named Lotsy Dotsy who visits patients. The Zeberskys worked with their design team at Jazwares to develop a custom Lotsy Dotsy doll in honor of the hospital’s resident clown, made specifically to comfort young patients during hospital stays.

“One of our greatest memories was making a very special toy for the hospital in honor of their most famous clown, Lotsy Dotsy,” Laura Zebersky explained. “To see how the kids interact with the doll and how it gives them the ability to feel just a little bit better, is so inspiring that it compelled us to want to do more.”

The Lotsy Dotsy Fund, bolstered by Zebersky donations, provides resources for activities and supplies used to entertain children during hospital stays.

Philanthropy built into business

Judd Zebersky established Jazwares Cares, the company’s philanthropic arm, at the company’s inception in 1997. The initiative donates millions of toys to children’s hospitals, schools, and non-profit organizations annually, supporting children’s health, well-being, and educational development through play. Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital has been a consistent beneficiary.

The hospital’s foundation president, Kevin Janser, acknowledged the sustained impact. “The contributions the Zeberskys and Jazwares have made to our efforts is a testament to their sincere desire to help children and families in difficult circumstances,” he said. “Their impact is significant, both today and in the time to come.”

Jazwares founder Judd Zebersky stepped down as CEO on March 20, 2026, closing a nearly 30-year chapter building the company. Jazwares Cares will continue its work, distributing toys to children’s hospitals, schools, and non-profit organizations across more than 100 countries.

DISCLAIMER – “Views Expressed Disclaimer – The information provided in this content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, legal, tax, or health advice, nor relied upon as a substitute for professional guidance tailored to your personal circumstances. The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of any other individual, organization, agency, employer, or company, including NEO CYMED PUBLISHING LIMITED (operating under the name Cyprus-Mail).