KT's Kids: Chicago friends found nonprofit that lifts kids up

Back when I was ready to publish my book about Chicago called “Ninety Days In The 90s,” I thought it was a good idea to donate some of the proceeds to a local charity.

After all, I’ve been fortunate. I get to write for a living. I have a great family and quality of life. I also have good health, that is, if you downplay sports injuries that include mild concussions, balls to the face and groin, taxed knees, and a broken fibula from playing men’s roller derby.

Anyhow, right before submitting my draft, I was asked by a friend to volunteer with KT’s Kids, a local activities-based charity. KT’s Kids was founded by Chicago therapist Katie Augustyn, Liar’s Club owner Herb Rosen and a few friends. One day, the gang was talking over beers and decided to do more to make people's lives better.

In Augustyn’s words: “In 2003, I was a social worker at Schwab Rehab Hospital and bartending at Liar’s Club at night. There was just so much need with the children that I worked with at Schwab, and it was frustrating and sad to see how kids couldn't get basic needs met at times.”

After rallying to provide basics like winter hats and gloves, they acted to do more.“It’s important for kids to get out in the community, play sports, interact with peers, go to fun events—all the typical childhood activities that children who are low income and disabled cannot always access,” said Augustyn.

Their mission has since evolved. KT’s Kids now take children and teens on field trips to enjoy what our city has to offer. Most of the kids have physical disabilities that limit their ability to traverse the vast Museum of Science and Industry or walk around Soldier Field.

The first time I volunteered, it was a Bulls game versus the Philadelphia 76ers. That Saturday night I was assigned a kid to take care of—to hang with, to talk about sports, video games, or whatever they’re into, and to spoil them a bit with concessions and Bulls souvenirs. 

Each December, KT’s Kids hosts a fundraiser show at Liar’s featuring performances by bands like Local H, Naked Raygun, Pegboy, Dummy, and Stiff Little Fingers. Please consider donating or volunteering for the activity, the fun, and the rock n’ roll party too. A fundraiser will be held at Liar’s Club on Saturday, Dec. 17, 1665 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, 7-11 p.m., (773) 665-1110.

Sportswriter/author Andy Frye has written for ESPN Chicago and Rolling Stone. His new book about Chicago, NINETY DAYS IN THE 90s, is out now.

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