There’s nothing quite like the crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, and a warm night at the ballpark, and thanks to the Clearwater Threshers, some of our Casey Cares families got to experience it all firsthand!
Our kiddos stepped into the stadium ready for an unforgettable night, cheering on the Threshers, soaking in the atmosphere, and embracing every exciting moment that comes with game day. From the first pitch to the final out, it was a night full of laughter, joy, and pure baseball magic.
But the fun didn’t stop there… some of our families even had the incredible opportunity to meet a few of the players! These up-close moments made the experience even more special, turning an already exciting night into a memory they’ll never forget.
At Casey Cares, we know that moments like these mean everything. A simple night at the ballpark becomes so much more; it’s a chance for families to relax, connect, and just enjoy being together.
A heartfelt thank you to the Clearwater Threshers for making this night possible and for helping create lasting memories for the families we serve!
The Spring Fashion Show was an unforgettable evening of style, community, and purpose, bringing together supporters from across the region to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children facing critical illness. Thanks to the generosity of our guests, sponsors, and partners, we are proud to share that the event raised $45,000 to support Casey Cares programs!
Guests enjoyed a vibrant and inspiring night that went far beyond the runway. Every moment of the evening directly contributed to creating uplifting experiences for the children and families we serve. Because of this incredible support, Casey Cares can continue providing special moments such as one-on-one encounters with elephants at Myakka Elephant Ranch, behind-the-scenes visits with penguins at The Florida Aquarium, and unforgettable days at baseball games all summer long; moments that bring joy, connection, and a sense of normalcy during incredibly difficult times.
A highlight of the evening was the presence of Casey Cares families. Their attendance served as a powerful reminder of the mission at the heart of everything we do, grounding the celebration in real impact and inspiring all who attended.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our boutique partners, cYou, Monkee’s of Lakewood Ranch, and Modern Soul, for helping bring the fashion show to life. Their creativity and dedication not only made the event beautiful, but also ensured that shopping with purpose remained at the center of the experience.
We are also deeply grateful to all of our generous sponsors whose support made this event possible. Your commitment to Casey Cares helps us continue delivering meaningful programs and unforgettable experiences to the families who need them most.
To everyone who attended, supported, and believed in our mission, thank you. Your involvement makes a lasting impact, and we are so grateful to have you as part of the Casey Cares community.
Sometimes, the smallest moments make the biggest difference.
Recently, we heard from a mother whose family experienced that firsthand during a hospital visit at INOVA in Virginia. Her daughter had become sick in the car on the way to an appointment, leaving them without a change of clothes. Already overwhelmed and trying to figure out their next steps, the stress of the situation quickly began to build.
Then, something simple changed everything.
A nurse offered her daughter a pair of pajamas through a hospital program: soft, clean, and perfectly fitting. In that moment, those pajamas did more than provide comfort. They brought relief. They restored a sense of normalcy during an otherwise stressful and uncertain time.
As her mom shared:
“Your program kept my daughter warm and comfortable at exactly the time she really needed it.”
What makes this story even more meaningful is that this family isn’t even part of our Casey Cares programs. And yet, they were still touched by the same kind of comfort and care that defines our mission.
Why Pajamas Matter
At Casey Cares, we believe comfort is powerful.
For children facing critical illness, something as simple as a new pair of pajamas can:
Provide warmth during long hospital stays
Offer a sense of normalcy for children facing the unimaginable
Bring a small moment of joy during an incredibly difficult time
Through our pajama programs, including hospital deliveries and PJ & Movie Night packages, we aim to create little moments and lasting memories for families when they need it most.
Stories like this remind us that the impact of a single pair of pajamas can extend far beyond what we see.
Join the Biggest PJ Party
Every April, we invite our community to be part of something bigger.
The 11th Annual #CaseyCaresBiggestPJParty is happening all month long, leading up to National Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day on April 16th, and we need your help to continue delivering comfort to children across the country!
When you participate, you’re helping ensure that more children, both in and beyond our programs, experience moments like this one.
Here’s how you can get involved:
Wear your pajamas to work, school, or around the house, spread the word, and tag us on socials
Every April, Casey Cares Foundation invites communities across the country to take part in one of our most meaningful traditions, the #CaseyCaresBiggestPJParty. What began as a simple idea has grown into a powerful movement, delivering comfort, joy, and a sense of normalcy to critically ill children and their families.
At the heart of this campaign is Kami. A beloved Casey Cares child, Kami passed away from leukemia in 2007. During her frequent hospital stays, something as simple as wearing her own pajamas instead of a hospital gown made her feel more comfortable, confident, and like herself. For a child facing unimaginable challenges, that small sense of normalcy meant everything.
In 2008, the Kami’s Jammies Program was created in her memory, transforming her experience into a lasting legacy for other children. Today, that legacy lives on through the Biggest PJ Party, which continues to grow year after year.
Now in its 11th year, the campaign aims to deliver 27,000 pairs of pajamas to critically ill children who are hospitalized or homebound. These pajamas are more than just clothing, they provide comfort during long hospital stays, restore dignity, and offer a reminder that someone is thinking of them.
Throughout the month of April, we encourage individuals, schools, businesses, and community groups to get involved by hosting pajama drives and wearing pajamas to work or school. On April 16th, National Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day, supporters everywhere come together to celebrate, raise awareness, and show their support for the children and families we serve.
For more than 25 years, Casey Cares has been dedicated to creating uplifting experiences for families facing critical illness—from hospital PJ deliveries to birthday surprises, movie nights, and special outings. The Biggest PJ Party is one of the many ways we continue that mission, turning small acts of kindness into meaningful moments that families will never forget.
This April, we invite you to join us. Help us honor Kami’s legacy and bring comfort to children when they need it most. Because sometimes, the smallest things, like a cozy pair of pajamas, can make the biggest difference.
At Casey Cares, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that bring joy, connection, and a sense of normalcy to the children and families we serve. Last Friday, March 21st, was a perfect example of that mission in action.
Eight-year-old Olive, who lives with severe, life-threatening allergies that can cause dangerous reactions (anaphylaxis), and her family were treated to an unforgettable night at the Osceola Magic vs. Delaware Blue Coats basketball game, and not just any seats… they were courtside! Even more special, Olive’s family was there representing Casey Cares as the Nonprofit of the Game, making the evening both exciting and incredibly meaningful!
From the moment they arrived, the experience was filled with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. The kids had the chance to meet the team mascot, step onto the court, and even hold the game ball during a timeout. Their VIP access also included entry to an exclusive club area, adding an extra layer of fun to an already incredible evening!
The night didn’t end when the final buzzer sounded. Olive and her family were invited to stay after the game, where they were able to collect autographs from the entire team, turning an amazing night into a collection of cherished keepsakes.
Olive’s mom shared her gratitude following the experience:
“I just wanted to send you pictures and thank you x a million for the best outing! The kids had so much fun and made such core memories. They got to meet the mascot and hold the game ball during a timeout. They also got access to a club and got autographs from the entire team after the game. Thank you so so much Casey Cares and the donors!”
Moments like these are what Casey Cares is all about. Through the generosity of our donors and partners, we are able to provide uplifting experiences that give families a chance to step away from the challenges of critical illness and simply enjoy being together.
Some people come into your life and become such an important part of the journey that it’s hard to imagine how things would look without them. For Casey Cares, Erin Webb Ritter is one of those people.
This year, Erin celebrates her 20th anniversary with Casey Cares! When Erin first joined Casey Cares two decades ago, we were still a small organization with a big dream. We wanted to create uplifting experiences and meaningful moments for critically ill children and their families who were facing the battle of their lives. Erin believed in that vision from the very beginning and immediately rolled up her sleeves to help make it happen.
Over the years, Erin has become so much more than a colleague. She has been a steady leader, a trusted partner, and someone who truly cares about the families we serve. Her compassion, dedication, and behind-the-scenes work have helped Casey Cares grow into what it is today, supporting families in more than 40 states and providing hundreds of programs each week that give children and their families something joyful to look forward to.
What I admire most about Erin is the heart she brings to everything she does. She understands that every activity, every surprise, and every moment we create for a family matters more than we may ever fully realize.
For 20 years, Erin has helped make those moments possible. I feel incredibly lucky to have Erin by my side on this journey. Building Casey Cares has always been about the people who believe in the mission and show up every day ready to make a difference, and Erin is truly one of the very best.
Erin, thank you for twenty amazing years. Casey Cares is stronger because of you, and so many families have felt your impact along the way.
Here’s to the next chapter, and to many more special moments for the brave children and families we are honored to serve!
This past weekend, Casey Cares was thrilled to host its 3rd Annual “Love-All” Tennis Tournament, bringing together supporters, players, sponsors, and volunteers for a day filled with friendly competition and meaningful impact.
Thanks to the incredible generosity and enthusiasm of everyone involved, this year’s tournament raised $27,426, which is more than $3,500 above last year’s total! These funds will directly support programs that bring comfort, joy, and unforgettable experiences to children facing critical illness and their families.
The impact of this generosity is significant. The funds raised could provide:
Over a year’s supply of pajamas delivered to local hospitals
270 movie and pizza night packages for hospitalized or homebound children
Sending 135 families to a Miami Marlins game, helping them create joyful memories during challenging times
A special thank you goes to Casey Cares board members Jarret and KristinaBostwick, who organized and led this incredible event. Their dedication and hard work helped make the tournament such a success. Thanks to the generosity of participants and supporters, the pajama donation box overflowed with donations, helping Casey Cares continue delivering comfort and joy to children facing critical illness.
We are tremendously grateful to our sponsors, partners, and volunteers whose support helped bring this event to life and ensured a wonderful experience for everyone.
And of course, congratulations to our division champions:
Thank you again to everyone who showed up, played hard, and supported our mission. Together, you are helping create moments of joy and normalcy for families navigating the challenges of childhood illness.
See some photos from the event below andCLICK HERE to view the entire gallery!
We look forward to seeing everyone back on the courts next year!
What an unforgettable day on the courts! This past weekend, supporters gathered at Lakewood Ranch Country Club East for our 3rd Annual Florida Pickleball Tournament, and thanks to the incredible energy, sportsmanship, and generosity of our community, it was one of our most successful tournaments yet.
Because of you, we raised nearly $45,000 to support critically ill children and their families.
That impact is more than a number — it translates directly into meaningful, joy-filled experiences for the families we serve. This generosity can provide:
Nearly a two-year supply of pajamas delivered to local hospitals
450 movie & pizza night packages for hospitalized or homebound children
Sending 75 families to a Tampa Bay Rays game, creating joyful memories during challenging times
Every serve, every rally, and every sponsorship helped make that possible.
Thank You to Our Incredible Sponsors
This event would not have been possible without the leadership and generosity of our major sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: Piping Rock/Nature’s Truth
STOCK Custom Homes/Wild Blue at Waterside
The Curran Foundation
BayCare
MITER Foundation/PGT
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these partners for their unwavering commitment to the Casey Cares mission. Their support helps us continue providing ongoing, uplifting programs that bring hope, normalcy, and lasting memories to families facing critical illness.
A huge thank you as well to all of our additional sponsors, partners, and volunteers who helped bring this event to life and ensured an exceptional experience for everyone involved. Your generosity and dedication truly make a difference.
Congratulations to Our Division Champions!
We were thrilled to see such strong competition across all divisions. Congratulations to our 2026 winners:
Women’s Division
Intermediate 1st Place: Jen Breo & Jennifer Russell 2nd Place: Linda Thrapp & Elizabeth Wang 3rd Place: Lori Faunce & Amy Krell
Advanced 1st Place: Karol Maas & Shelli Bitter 2nd Place: Sue Kreppel & Alissa Karjel 3rd Place: Jen Kahler & Shellie Feola
Men’s Division
Beginner 1st Place: Luke Anderson & Howie Ash 2nd Place: Nick Drizos & Jon Okoye 3rd Place: Chris Neher & Chris Neher Jr.
Intermediate 1st Place: Peter Trofim & Steven Blum 2nd Place: Denis Cooper & Philip Gottlieb 3rd Place: Mike Baynes & Bobby Greenberg
Advanced 1st Place: George Prince & Tommy Taborn 2nd Place: Matt Mace & Don Perella 3rd Place: Bob Hamilton & Chris Jagel
Thank You for Making a Difference
To everyone who played, sponsored, volunteered, donated, and cheered from the sidelines, thank you for showing up, competing hard, and supporting the Casey Cares mission.
Because of you, families facing some of life’s hardest moments will receive experiences that bring comfort, connection, and joy.
We can’t wait to see you back on the courts next year!
The Casey Cares 26th Annual Sea of Hope Gala was an unforgettable evening celebrating our journey and raising over $260,000 to support the life-changing programs and activities we provide to critically ill children and their families!
With more than 300 guests filling the American Visionary Art Museum, the evening began with a sparkling cocktail hour featuring delicious cuisine, refreshing beverages, and a stunning turquoise shimmer backdrop where guests posed with a live “mermaid.” The ambiance was beautifully set with live jazz music that captivated attendees from the very first note.
Emceed by Weather Channel meteorologist and longtime Casey Cares supporter Lynette Charles, alongside WBAL’s Angelette Aviles, the evening was vibrant and inspiring. Guests enthusiastically participated in exciting live and silent auctions before dancing the night away in celebration.
During the program, Casey Cares Founder and Executive Director Casey Baynes presented the annual Champion of Children Award to Julia Arfaa of Arfaa Law Group, recognizing her unwavering dedication, generosity, and steadfast support of Casey Cares’ mission. We are deeply grateful for her commitment and the profound impact she continues to make in the lives of thousands of critically ill children and their families.
A moving video, generously sponsored by the Bostwick Family, featured Casey Cares families and highlighted the meaningful, ongoing support made possible through our dedicated donors and sponsors. Casey Cares parents in attendance were invited to stand and be recognized, creating a powerful and heartfelt moment. You can watch the video here.
A huge thank you to our generous Diamond Sponsor: Foundation Housing
Platinum Sponsors: Arco Management Corp/MMS Group, Arfaa Law Group, CohnReznick, Salsbury Stringer McCulley, The Bostwick Family, Weltchek Mallahan and Weltchek
Gold Sponsors: DiMayo Family Foundation, EagleBank, Henry A. Strohminger Family Foundation Inc., iHeartmedia, IP Datasystems, Inc., Johns Hopkins University & Medicine, M&T Bank, Marbaugh Family Endowment Fund
Silver Sponsors: Lifebridge Health, Merritt Properties, Sons of The American Legion, The Capodanno Family
Bronze Sponsors: Fire Commissioner Kevin B. and Mrs. Rachel R. O’Connor, Goodman-Gable-Gould, Adjusters International, Hargadon Family, Reno & Cavanaugh, Team Watience, Vallit
We also extend our sincere appreciation to our incredible media and in-kind sponsors: BridgeTower Media/The Daily Record, CityPeek, Clear Channel Outdoor, DowntownDiane.net, HeidnSeek Entertainment, WBAL TV/Radio, Atlantic Caterers, Black Oak Visuals, Electric Events DC, JEDCo Brands, Inc., Tom Reyes & Friends, Triangle Sign Services, White Clover Floral Events.
Special thanks to Peter Watts of The Five Arrows Photography for beautifully capturing the magic of the evening. View the photos below.
Over the past quarter-century, Casey Cares has delivered an astounding 336,947 activities to 618,952 program participants. Thanks to your generous contributions and steadfast support, we continue to adapt to the evolving needs of our growing number of families, offering meaningful activities designed to bring smiles during life’s most challenging moments.
If you were unable to attend the gala but would still like to make an impact, we warmly invite you to consider making a donation today.
At Casey Cares, the months ahead are filled with energy, connection, and purpose. From galas and tournaments to fashion and pajamas, this season is more than a calendar of events, it’s a powerful reminder of what happens when a community rallies around critically ill children and their families.
We are kicking things off this weekend with one of our most cherished traditions, the 26th Annual Sea of Hope Gala on February 21st. This unforgettable evening brings together supporters, sponsors, and friends for a night of celebration, generosity, and heartfelt impact. Every bid placed, every paddle raised, and every sponsor recognized helps ensure that the families we serve continue receiving moments of joy, normalcy, and comfort during some of their most difficult days.
The excitement continues the very next weekend as we take the courts for not one, but two exciting events on February 28th, our Florida Pickleball Tournament and our Ohio Pickleball Tournament. These high-energy tournaments bring players and supporters together for friendly competition and meaningful purpose. When participants step onto the court, they’re doing more than playing a game, they’re helping fund experiences that create smiles for children who need them most.
On March 7th, we head to the courts again for the West Palm Tennis Tournament, where sport and service come together in a beautiful way. This event continues to grow each year, and we’re so grateful to the players and sponsors who turn their love of tennis into life-changing support for our families.
April keeps the momentum going with two exciting initiatives. On April 9th, we’ll host the Florida Fashion Show, an elegant and inspiring event that highlights both style and heart. It’s a celebration of community partnership and compassion, and another meaningful way supporters help sustain our programs.
And all April long, we invite everyone across the country to take part in something truly special, the Casey Cares Biggest PJ Party! This national initiative encourages schools, businesses, and communities to wear pajamas and raise funds to support critically ill children. What may seem simple, a cozy pair of pajamas, represents comfort, security, and childhood joy for the families we serve. It’s a powerful reminder that small acts can create extraordinary impact.
Every single one of these events supports the same mission: providing uplifting, ongoing programs that bring hope and normalcy to critically ill children and their families. Whether it’s a night at a gala, a day on the court, a fashion runway, or a pajama drive, each moment of participation fuels life-changing experiences.
As we move through this exciting season, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the sponsors, volunteers, players, attendees, and donors who make it all possible. We can’t wait to see you at an event soon!
