At Casey Cares Foundation, we believe that even the simplest acts of kindness can bring enormous comfort to critically ill children. As #NationalWearYourPajamasToWorkDay approaches, we’re inviting you to do just that—wear your pajamas proudly and help support our Biggest PJ Party yet.
For children battling cancer, sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, and other life-threatening illnesses, hospital stays and treatment days often feel endless. But something as small as a cozy new pair of pajamas can bring a smile, warmth, and a sense of normalcy to these brave young patients. Our PJ Drive is all about collecting those little comforts—soft, colorful pajamas that let kids feel like kids, even in the most difficult of times.
This month, we’ve seen an overwhelming outpouring of support from schools, companies, and community groups across the region. Piles of pajamas have been donated in memory of loved ones, in celebration of healing, and simply as a way to give back. Each pair represents love, hope, and solidarity with families going through the unimaginable.
Tomorrow, when you put on your pajamas for work, know that you’re doing more than just participating in a fun tradition. You’re standing with Casey Cares and the hundreds of children we serve each year. You’re sending a message that comfort and care matter—and that no child has to face their illness alone.
There’s still time to get involved! You can drop off new pajamas at one of our partner locations, shop directly from our Amazon Wishlist to have them shipped straight to us, or make a Monetary Donation and we will get the PJs for you! Every pair counts.
Let’s make this the coziest PJ Day ever. Thank you for helping us wrap our kids in love—one pair of pajamas at a time.
This past Saturday was nothing short of amazing! The courts were buzzing with energy as tennis lovers from across the area came together not just to compete, but to give back. The West Palm Tennis Tournament brought out fierce rallies, plenty of smiles, and a whole lot of heart — all to support the critically ill kids in the Casey Cares Foundation. With fun flight names inspired by tennis greats and a true sense of community spirit, players brought their best game and their biggest hearts.
A big congratulations to our winners:
Men’s Flights
Tiafoe Flight – Carlos Perez and Adam Prugh Fritz Flight – Jorge Patino and Manuel Paredes Shelton Flight – Sean Conlin and Michael Frank
Women’s Flights
Gauff Flight – Cynthia Napoleone and Julie Mitchell Pegula Flight – Ellen DiMayo and Helen Rothschild Keys Flight – Kelsea Mannix and Samantha Cordoba Collins Flight – Renee Townsley and Adriana Cadet Navarro Flight – Risa Snyder and Dawn Lloyd
Heart of the Tournament – Ryder’s Story
Among all the amazing energy on the courts, one incredible child from the Casey Cares program reminded us exactly why this day mattered. Ryder Hinds, a bright and resilient 9-year-old, was the heart of the event. Diagnosed with Short Bowel Syndrome at birth on December 9, 2015, Ryder’s journey has included countless challenges and courageous moments. Despite his diagnosis, Ryder continues to enjoy special Casey Cares experiences, including recent trips to a Miami Marlins game, Disney On Ice, and a Ft. Myers Mighty Mussels game.
Meeting Ryder in person brought an unforgettable reminder to our participants of the impact their support has on the lives of families facing medical hardships.
Cheers to Our Champions – On and Off the Court
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts of our incredible event leaders. A heartfelt thank-you goes to our Event Chairs Kristina Bostwick and Jarrett Bostwick for their leadership and vision.
We also want to recognize our amazing committee members: Amy Roberts, Jessica Moisdon, Nora Conlin, Missy Lee, and Diana Drayton — thank you for all of your hard work and heart!
And of course, we extend our deepest gratitude to all of the volunteers who made the day run so smoothly.
We are so thankful for the unwavering support from our sponsors and partners, who truly believe in our mission and the joy we aim to bring to children battling critical illnesses.
This April, the Casey Cares Foundation is turning something simple—pajamas—into a powerful symbol of comfort, compassion, and care with the return of its beloved annual event: The Biggest PJ Party.
Throughout the month, individuals, schools, workplaces, and entire communities are invited to join in the mission to collect 25,000 new pairs of pajamas for children who are bravely battling life-threatening illnesses. Whether they’re homebound or undergoing hospital treatment, these children often face long, uncertain days filled with appointments, treatments, and time away from friends and the comforts of home.
Casey Cares believes in making those days just a little bit brighter.
Inspired by One Child’s Legacy
The PJ drive is part of Casey Cares’ Kami’s Jammies program, a heartfelt initiative that honors the memory of Kamryn, a spirited Casey Cares child whose face would light up each time she received a fresh pair of cozy pajamas during her hospital stays. What began as a simple act of kindness has now grown into a legacy—more than 183,000 pairs of pajamas have been donated in Kamryn’s name, bringing smiles, warmth, and comfort to children all across the country.
How You Can Make a Difference
There are many ways to be part of this uplifting movement:
🧸 Donate New Pajamas – From newborn sizes to teen styles, all are welcome. Send them directly through Casey Cares’ Amazon Wishlist or drop them off at one of many local collection sites.
🍕 Send a Slice of Joy – Gift cards to pizza places or streaming services help create the perfect at-home movie night kits, another way Casey Cares delivers joy right to a child’s doorstep.
💌 Make a Monetary Donation – Can’t shop right now? Let Casey Cares do it for you! Every dollar goes toward buying pajamas and other essentials for the kids they serve.
👫 Host a PJ Drive – Rally your school, workplace, church, or community group to collect pajamas together. You’ll be amazed at the joy one simple pajama drive can bring to everyone involved.
Show Your Stripes (or Polka Dots!)
Whether you’re cozying up in flannel, fleece, or footies, you can help spread the word by snapping a PJ selfie and posting it on social media with the hashtag #CaseyCaresBiggestPJParty. Don’t forget to tag @CaseyCares and challenge friends and coworkers to join in!
Every picture shared, every pair collected, and every dollar donated goes straight to making life a little easier—and a lot more comfortable—for a child who truly needs it.
Join Us in the Pajama Party That’s Changing Lives
Comfort doesn’t cure illness—but it does remind a child that they’re not alone. That their community cares. That even on the hardest days, someone is thinking of them.
The Casey Cares 25th Annual Silver Anniversary Gala was a fantastic evening celebrating their journey and raising over $300,000 for their remarkable programs and activities for critically ill children!
With over 400 attendees packing the American Visionary Art Museum, the night kicked off with a sparkling cocktail hour featuring delicious food (including a stunning 25 made of shrimp!), refreshing drinks and mocktails, a dazzling silver backdrop for group photos, and live jazz music that captivated guests from the start.
Emceed by the wonderful Weather Channel meteorologist and longtime Casey Cares supporter Lynette Charles, alongside newcomer Kara Burnett from WMAR’s Good Morning Maryland, the event was full of energy. Guests participated in exciting live and silent auctions, bidding on items like a destination trips, an Orioles Gunnar Henderson jersey, restaurant and wine packages, and VIP tickets to a Baltimore Ravens game.
During the gala, Casey Cares Founder and Executive Director Casey Baynes presented the annual Champion of Children Award to Dr. Renee Boss from Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. For 25 years, Johns Hopkins has been a steadfast supporter of Casey Cares families, ensuring patients receive not only world-class medical care but also the unique palliative support we provide. Casey Cares is deeply grateful for their commitment and the profound impact they have on the lives of over 1,000 critically ill children and their families.
A heartfelt video, sponsored by the Bostwick Family, showcased Casey Cares families, highlighting the ongoing support Casey Cares provides thanks to donors and sponsors. Casey Cares parents were asked to stand for their recognition. You can watch the video here.
Casey Cares also presented the inaugural Legacy of Memories Award posthumously to Casey Cares supporter and former Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz, given to his brother Chris. This award recognizes individuals who have profoundly impacted Casey Cares’ mission to support critically ill children and their families.
The evening concluded with special music thanks to Blakely Cain and guests showcased their incredible dance moves!
A huge thank you to our generous Platinum Sponsors: Foundation Housing, Arfaa Law Group, Arco Management Corp/MMS Group, CohnReznick, Carding Group, the Bostwicks, Salsbury Stringer McCulley, and Weltchek Mallahan & Weltchek
Gold Sponsors: DiMayo Family Foundation, EagleBank, Firstrust Bank, Gragg Cardona Souadi, Henry A. Strohminger Family Foundation Inc., Johns Hopkins University & Medicine, Kramon & Graham, M&T Bank, MileOne, Nicholas & Susan Crivella, Paul Capodanno – Capitol Wealth Management Group, Sons of The American Legion, Whiting Turner
Bronze Sponsors: Arrow Parking, Bill Meissner, Eric and Dalia Sussman, Goodman-Gable-Gould, Adjusters International, Goulston & Storrs, Heineken (Republic National Distributing Company), Kriger Insurance, Nusinov Smith, Reno & Cavanaugh
We also appreciate our fantastic media and in-kind sponsors: HeidnSeek Entertainment, DowntownDiane.net, Bridge Tower Media – The Daily Record, Baltimore Magazine, Focus On Women Magazine, Atlantic Caterers, Berger Cookies, Electric Events DC, Tom Reyes & Friends, Triangle Sign Services, and White Clover Floral Events.
Special thanks to Peter Watts from Five Arrows Photography for capturing the evening’s magic. View the photos below.
Over the past quarter-century, Casey Cares has delivered an astounding 259,398 activities to 470,189 program participants. Thanks to your generous contributions and support, we can continue adapting to the evolving needs of our expanding number of families, offering activities designed to bring smiles when they’re needed most. If you couldn’t attend the gala but wish to contribute, please consider making a donation today!
It was an incredible afternoon for pickleball enthusiasts in Florida! On February 1st, Lakewood Ranch Country Club hosted the 2nd Annual Casey Cares Serve Up Smiles Pickleball Tournament with over 150 participants. The day was a resounding success and packed with friendly competition, exciting giveaways, and prizes while raising over $55,000 for critically ill children in our programs! The money will be used to provide hundreds of fun activities and Movie & Pizza Night packages for homebound kids. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and supported this incredible event.
Congratulations to our winners!
Men’s Advanced: Brian Grogan and John Riley
Men’s Intermediate: Aaron Muai and Jonathan Lth
Men’s Beginner: Jake Baynes and Michael Murray
Women’s Advanced: Jen Kahler and Shellie Feola
Women’s Intermediate: Kirstin Hakes and Merrill Spector
Women’s Beginner: Sarah Burch and Grace Kadel
We couldn’t have done it without our amazing sponsors! A special shoutout to our Presenting Sponsor: Nature’s Truth, and ourAffiliate Sponsors: RenewLife, Neocell, and Natural Vitality. Your support is invaluable and made our event possible, creating countless joyful memories for critically ill children in our programs.
Participants had the opportunity to hear from Chris, a Casey Cares teen living with cystic fibrosis. He shared how Casey Cares has supported him and his family during his treatment journey. Chris and his dad also joined in the fun by participating in the tournament!
A MASSIVE thank you to our dedicated committee members:
Lee Ann Reich (Chair)
Yvette Varnadore
Patti Cron O’Neill
Ellen Ramy
Lori Arledge
A shoutout to our wonderful volunteers: Taylor Shortridge, Erin Martin, Caitlin Kotek, Julia Keppel, Sarah Shortridge, Carla Roslovic, Heather Greenberg, Kim Laverick, Marissa Sprungman, Hannah Sprungman, Olivia Spiegel, Gigi DeCampos, Luca Blin March, Paige Reich, Jake Baynes, Michael Murray, and the professional players: Pedro Penteado, Erica Love, Philly Dillon, Todd Fisher, Paul Lederman. We are grateful for your hard work in prepping the courts and ensuring everything ran smoothly!
Custom Sponsors: Patti Cron O’Neill & Tim O’Neill, Kim & Blaine Laverick, Steven & Alison Eichenbaum, Yvette & David Varnadore, Michele Caba, Lori Arledge, Benevity, and the Greenbergs
Casey Cares had the honor of welcoming Dr. Calvin Ball, Howard County Executive, to our office in Columbia. This visit was particularly special as we commemorated our 25th anniversary of providing support to critically ill children and their families.
During his visit, Dr. Ball received a tour of the Casey Cares office, observed how our staff provides services to critically ill children and their families, and met with a few of our dedicated volunteers. He also thanked Casey Cares for our work by presenting a proclamation to declare a special “Casey Cares Foundation Day.”
Dr. Ball’s presence underscored the significance of the work Casey Cares has been doing in the community, offering respite and enriching experiences for families facing the challenges of critical illnesses. Since our inception in 2000, Casey Cares has touched the lives of thousands of children across multiple states, providing family-centric activities and programs to those who must make every moment count.
“Families of critically ill children face a harrowing, and oftentimes, lonely journey,” said Dr. Ball. “For 25 years, Casey Cares has been an uplifting support for these families by giving them a much-needed reprieve from the daily stresses of caring for a sick loved one. Their work has touched the lives of so many when it means the most. Howard County is proud to support this vital organization that brings joy to countless families.”
“We were honored to have Dr. Ball join us in celebrating this important milestone,” says Casey Cares Founder Casey Baynes. “His support highlights our ongoing commitment to the families we serve and the impact of community partnerships in making a difference.”
Check out WBAL’s article about this special day here!
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and fellow board member, Brian Matusz. Since joining the Casey Cares family in 2009, Brian touched countless lives with his kindness, warmth, and genuine spirit.
Brian had a remarkable ability to connect with our kids and their families—whether visiting them in the hospital, playing wiffle ball at our events, or welcoming them onto the Orioles field before practice. He always took the time to engage with them, greeting each child with his gentle smile and making them feel truly special. His support and passion were nothing short of inspiring, and it’s difficult to envision our work without his presence.
His spirit and legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of Casey Cares. Please keep his family in your thoughts during this challenging time. We love you #17. A celebration of Brian Matusz’s life will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Glendale, AZ on Jan. 24. Visitation begins 9:30 a.m.
As we say goodbye to 2024, we’re excited to reflect on the incredible milestones we’ve achieved together! This year, we launched our first-ever Pickleball Tournaments in Florida and Maryland, welcomed over 600 participants at our record-breaking 5K at the Maryland Zoo, and celebrated the highest number of sponsorships at our Rock ‘N’ Roll Bash, thanks to board member Mike DiMayo. We also received more than 26,000 pajamas for critically ill kids, celebrated over 1,000 birthdays, and so much more!
We provided 35,916 programs to 66,630 participants!That works out to more than four programs an hour, every hour of 2024! Your generous donations have made a tremendous impact on critically ill children and their families across the Mid-Atlantic region, parts of the Midwest, Florida, and D.C.
A heartfelt thank you to:
Every donor: Your support through monetary gifts, pajamas, toys, gift cards, volunteer efforts, and engagement has made everything possible. We’re incredibly grateful!
Our amazing board members: Your dedication has brought our nonprofit to life and made spectacular events happen!
Our generous sponsors: Your contributions bring joy to critically ill kids and their families. Thank you for your unwavering support!
Our incredible volunteers and interns: You help us roll and send pajamas, schedule programs, create care packages, pack birthday boxes, and so much more. You are the backbone of our mission!
Our founder, Casey Baynes, and the Casey Cares staff: Your dedication and compassion shine through every day!
Our families: We’re committed to supporting you and your child in every way possible. You are truly the strongest people we know!
To anyone we may have missed: Your contributions matter!
We are so grateful for the countless stories, cherished moments, and lasting memories we’ve shared this year. You can continue to make a positive impact year-round by donating to Casey Cares – tap here to donate! Here’s to 2025 – we can’t wait to see (and show you!) what amazing things are in store!
What a joyful time we had at Casey Cares’ Annual Holiday Party at the Maryland Science Center! We were delighted to welcome over 100 critically ill children and their families for a truly unforgettable event.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our top sponsor, Nathanson Dental, whose generous support made this gathering possible. Thanks to them, the children enjoyed delicious snacks, danced to live music from Tom Reyes and his band, received cuddly stuffed animals, and explored the incredible science exhibits. The highlight of the evening was a special visit from Santa, made possible by the generous contributions of Gil and Marianne Kuta.
Our Holiday Party is one of many Caring Connections events organized by Casey Cares. These gatherings are incredibly meaningful for the critically ill children and their families in our programs, offering a much-needed break from the stresses of hospital visits and creating opportunities for cherished family moments during the holiday season.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this event a success, from our sponsors to our dedicated volunteers. Your support and commitment have brought lots of smiles to these brave children and their families.
Discover all the ways you can help critically ill kids this holiday season here!
Casey Cares is excited to announce the winners of our Young Professionals of the Year awards! These outstanding individuals have gone above and beyond to make a meaningful impact on the lives of critically ill children. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the voting process and for your unwavering dedication throughout the year.
Meet Our Award Winners
Most Valuable Young Professional: Joanna Radov
Joanna has made a significant contribution as the Event Chair for Crit’s for Casey Cares featuring Myles Garrett, where she helped raise over $14,000! Her efforts have not only supported our mission financially but have also fostered connections within the community. Joanna has referred several young professionals who are now actively engaged with us and has built vital partnerships with the Cleveland Monsters, Charge, and Cavs, creating special experiences for Casey Cares kids.
Memory Maker Award: Blair Goodrich
Blair’s commitment to creating lasting memories for our children and families is truly inspiring. She founded the Honorary Captains Club at Towson University, dedicated to hosting athletic experiences and fundraisers that benefit the kids in our programs. Thanks to her efforts, children have enjoyed unforgettable moments at football, volleyball, and lacrosse games, bringing joy and excitement into their lives.
Event Impact Award: Kells Lynch Barton
Kells has made a tremendous impact through her contributions to various events. She has provided beautiful centerpieces for multiple occasions, including the Gala, Fishing Tournament, and Golf Tournament. Additionally, Kells has served on several event committees, including the 5K and Gala, where her dedication and creativity have significantly enhanced the overall experience for attendees.
Connector Award: Casey Pearlman
Casey has excelled in raising awareness and engagement for Casey Cares. Her company participated in the #CaseyCaresBiggestPJParty, encouraging clients to join in the fun and take part in the virtual 5K. Through her social media shoutouts, Casey has amplified our mission, strengthening our reach and impact within the community.
These remarkable young professionals exemplify the dedication and passion that drive Casey Cares forward. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to seeing their continued impact on our mission. Thank you to all who contributed to this year’s awards, our entire Young Professional Board, and congratulations to our winners!
