2025 CORE Kidney Rose Parade Float: “It Takes Two”
“Buy a Rose” Campaign
Help us continue to raise kidney health awareness by participating in our Buy a Rose campaign. For a $10 donation, you can dedicate a rose to a loved one, friend, or anyone who has made a difference in your life. Simply text “BUYAROSE” (one word) to 41444 or visit tinyurl.com/BuyARose to contribute. Your name-and the name of the person you honor-will appear on our digital Tribute Wall.
Building on the success of our 2024 float-which received the prestigious Isabella Coleman Award-CORE Kidney returns to the 136th Tournament of Roses Parade with a powerful message about kidney health. This year’s theme, “It Takes Two,” highlights how dual partnerships drive every aspect of kidney care and awareness. From donor and recipient working together to save a life, to the doctor-patient relationship that ensures personalized treatment, and even a simple blood and urine test that can detect kidney disease early, “it takes two” is at the heart of our float’s mission to educate, inspire, and honor.
Symbolism of the Float:
1. Hummingbird: As in our previous float, the hummingbird takes flight as a symbol of spirituality and hope-reminding us that small actions can have a profound impact.
2. Lotus Flower: Positioned front and center, the lotus represents resilience. Just as this aquatic flower rises from muddy waters to bloom beautifully, kidney patients overcome adversity and shine as an inspiration to others.
3. Pair of Hands: Cradling the lotus, these hands signify empowerment, gratitude, and the act of taking control of one’s health.
4. Kidney-Shaped Trees: Standing tall behind the lotus, these “Trees of Life” represent the vital role kidneys play in overall well-being, while also evoking unity and the promise of renewal.
5. Bridge of Life: Spanning the center of the float, this bridge symbolizes the many paths to better kidney health-be it dialysis, transplantation, or connecting with the right medical team.
6. Gazebo: Nestled at the rear, the gazebo embodies community support, a safe haven for patients and their loved ones during the kidney journey.
7. Boom Box (“Bloom Box”): A nod to the 1980s hit “It Takes Two,” this iconic speaker amplifies our central message: Kidney health matters-get tested, stay informed, and spread awareness.
By uniting under the banner of “It Takes Two,” we honor living donors, celebrate patient resilience, and empower everyone to take control of their kidney health. Thank you for supporting CORE Kidney and helping us share this life-changing message at the 2025 Rose Parade. We hope to see you there!