Rainbow Ryders, a Southwest hot air balloon company based in Glendale, will unveil a  hot air balloon banner created by the cousin of a local pediatric cancer warrior during a special sunrise flight on Saturday, June 21.

The design was selected through Rainbow Ryders’ expanded partnership with the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, a nonprofit devoted to supporting families navigating childhood cancer.

As part of the collaboration, children supported by ACFC were invited to submit original artwork with the chance to see their vision take flight. Dozens of imaginative, colorful, and courageous submissions were received.

One young girl’s design, filled with hope and strength, was chosen to be transformed into a custom banner that will now soar above the Valley on one of Rainbow Ryders’ signature 12-passenger balloons during daily sunrise rides.

“It’s an honor to bring this young artist’s vision to life and to continue our work with the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children,” stated Lindsay Mayer, director of operations at Rainbow Ryders, in a press release. “Her design will serve as a symbol of strength, hope, and imagination - qualities these children embody every day.”

To mark the occasion, Rainbow Ryders will host a special sunrise balloon flight for the winning artist and her family on June 21, where the custom banner will be revealed in the sky for the very first time.

“For our families facing the unimaginable, moments like these are everything,” stated Chrisie Abramo, President and Founder of ACFC. “Rainbow Ryders continues to be an incredible partner in helping us create lasting memories filled with joy, adventure, and hope.”

Following the success of this initiative, Rainbow Ryders plans to expand the “Design a Balloon” program into a quarterly campaign, giving more children the opportunity to share their creativity and see their artwork lifted into the clouds.

To learn about Rainbow Ryders or to book a flight, visit rainbowryders.com. For information on Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, visit azcancerfoundation.org