Chicago Blackhawks Charities have awarded a $15,000 grant to The Chicago Lighthouse to support students with low vision in Chicago area schools. The funds will provide free eye exams, glasses and other magnifying devices to help students see better and enhance their school achievements.

Lighthouse Industries has helped Blackhawks Charities raise money at their home games by providing clocks with the Blackhawks logo, which are raffled or auctioned the night of the game. Practically neighbors, the Blackhawks and Lighthouse have built a great partnership!

In other hockey news, on Wednesday, August 25th, Chicago Wolves player Brian Sipotz (pictured below with wife and Lighthouse staff member, Kelly Sipotz and their son Cole) and mascot, Skates, came to visit the clients in the Adult Living Skills (ALS) and Work Activities programs. The students were able to sit down with an AHL player and have a face-to-face conversation about what it’s like to be a professional athlete. The Wolves gave the students autographed hats and photos of Brian Sipotz and Skates along with replicas of their 2008 championship cup as souvenirs from an exciting afternoon. On Wednesday, August 25th, Chicago Wolves player Brian Sipotz and mascot, Skates, came to visit the clients in the Adult Living Skills (ALS) and Work Activities programs.  The students were able to sit down with an AHL player and have a face-to-face conversation about what it’s like to be a professional athlete.  The Wolves gave the students autographed hats and photos of Brian Sipotz and Skates along with replicas of their 2008 championship cup as souvenirs from an exciting afternoon.

"Everyone enjoyed the visit- the interaction with such an approachable and down to earth professional athlete was great for the students," said Jim Pagani, ALS activity coordinator.  "The Wolves were the talk of the town this afternoon!"

He added that the ALS program is planning to attend a Wolves’ daytime game in the upcoming season.

A special thank you goes to Brian’s wife Kelly Sipotz, Lighthouse early intervention coordinator and school social worker, and the Chicago Wolves Organization for making this memorable visit possible!