Community Unites at 14th Annual "Kickin' It for Kids With Cancer" Event, Raising $14,000
- Event presented by Food City
- All funds help Foundation provide services to families faced with pediatric cancer
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (Oct. 16, 2023) – The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer (AHF), in partnership with the Lee University Women’s Soccer Program, is thrilled to announce the success of the 14th Annual "Kickin’ It for Kids with Cancer" event. The exciting evening, presented by Food City, brought together the community in support of pediatric cancer families, raising a total of over $14,000 for AHF to provide mental and behavioral health services to families facing childhood cancer.
"Kickin' It for Kids With Cancer" is a unique event that blends both sports and community support. Beyond the goals, cheers and thrilling soccer action, the event embodies a strong sense of unity and compassion for families who have faced the challenges of pediatric cancer.
One of the hallmarks of the evening was the presence of numerous Austin Hatcher Foundation families who attended to enjoy the sense of community and camaraderie. Their participation added a deeply meaningful layer to the event, underscoring the importance of coming together to support pediatric cancer families. AHF families were invited to walk out with the starting lineup, enjoy dinner donated by Zaxby's Cleveland, and connect with other families who understand the unique challenges they face.
This night was made possible by the generous support of AHF’s sponsors, including Food City, Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Chattanooga, Business Water Solutions, Monen Family Restaurant Group, and Rock Bridge Community Church of Cleveland. Media sponsors, including WCLE Mix 104.1 radio, Chattanooga City Lifestyle, Brewer Media Group, CityScope Magazine, HealthScope Magazine, and Reagan Outdoor Advertising, played a pivotal role in raising awareness of the event. And the event comes together thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Lee University soccer teams, who both secured shutout victories over rival Shorter University.
For over a decade, the Lee Women's Soccer team has played an integral role in making "Kickin' It for Kids with Cancer" a reality. As part of this special evening, the women proudly donned "Hatch" jerseys, symbolizing their commitment to the cause.
All funds raised during the event will be channeled toward providing counseling and therapy to families who have and continue to journey through the challenges of childhood cancer. These services, including art & music therapy, family counseling, tutoring and educational support, grief groups, family programs, camps and more, are offered at no cost to the families and are administered by a licensed clinical team at AHF's 33,000-sq. ft. Education Advancement Center in Chattanooga.
“The success of Kickin' It for Kids with Cancer goes beyond the dollars raised,” said Shayna Webb, Marketing Coordinator at the Austin Hatcher Foundation. “It underscores the power of community, compassion and collective action in helping families who are facing pediatric cancer. The evening was a great show of support from the community. On behalf of both the staff and the families that AHF serves, we’d like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Lee Athletics, Zaxby’s, Food City and all of our amazing sponsors, and everyone who helped this night happen.”
For more information about the annual "Kickin' It for Kids With Cancer" event and the Austin Hatcher Foundation's mission, please visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.
