On the second annual Team IMPACT field day in Chicago, over one hundred children, family members, student-athletes and supporters got together to have fun and raise awareness for the organization. The Sunday-afternoon event was a way for local families already part of Team IMPACT at various local campuses to get involved, and also allowed for new families to learn about the program.
As a referral partner, Shriner’s Children’s Hospital of Chicago hosted the event, knowing how important Team IMPACT can be for their families. Darlene Kelly, CTRS, Director of Recreation Therapy / Child Life Department and Shriners Chicago talked about their support of Team IMPACT prior to the event. “We are so honored to be able to host the second annual Team IMPACT Field Day here at Shriners Children’s Chicago. The work Team IMPACT does has impacted our patients on so many different levels. We are excited to get the word out so more of our Shriners kids and those in the community can have the opportunity to experience the fun, camaraderie, and social support these college athletes provide to our kids with the help of Team IMPACT.”
“Events like Field Day provide our kids a fun respite from their daily challenges. As parents we can’t help but sit back and smile and wipe away a happy tear seeing our child living in the moment.”
– Angie, mom to Nick, matched with Purdue Northwest men’s hockey
Alexis Randall, Team IMPACT’s midwest Regional Executive Director noted that you could feel the joy that filled the room. Participating families, student-athletes, volunteers and program supporters came together to not just meet each other, but share with perspective families the effect of the relationships being built between children and teams. Angie, mom to Nick who is matched with Purdue Northwest men’s hockey noted “As a Team IMPACT family, we are grateful and appreciative of all that Team IMPACT does for families. Events like Field Day provide our kids a fun respite from their daily challenges. The volunteers make the day all about fun and all about them. As parents we can’t help but sit back and smile and wipe away a happy tear seeing our child living in the moment. Our match has provided our child that experience of team/family, and these events provide us with the chance to meet other families and form friendships with those who understand what our daily lives are like.” Angie’s words made a difference, and 16 new families have signed up for Team IMPACT in the aftermath of the event.
GCM Grosvenor extends a special thank you to Team IMPACT for fostering positive opportunities for children across Chicago. It’s an honor to contribute to creating unforgettable experiences that embrace and support local families.
With 56 active matches in all of Illinois, and 125 all-time, Chicago and surrounding communities throughout the state are helping children build resilience among collegiate athletes. From Northwestern and Loyola to University of Illinois at Chicago and Lewis University, these campuses are creating long term relationships with their matches on and off the field.
In addition to Shriner’s, various local sponsors made the event extra special. GCM Grosvenor returned its support for the second year as a silver medal sponsor. Happy Camper Pizza and Crumbl cookies supplied food for families and volunteers as well.
If you know a child who could benefit from being a part of the Team IMPACT program, make a referral here.