The Shadow Buddies Foundation’s Annual Benefit Dinner “Scoring a Victory for Children,” was held on Monday. While the theme of the evening is focused squarely on making a difference, the event is always known to attract some of Kansas City’s top celebrities, including various Chiefs. This year was no different as VIPs of all shapes and sizes took to the red carpet at this “Oscars-themed” event including Chiefs QB Matt Cassel.

“This is really a fun event,” noted Cassel. “My wife, Lauren, and I were very excited to get involved with Shadow Buddies shortly after we arrived in Kansas City. I know from having made a hospital visit on their behalf just what a difference these buddies can make to those that are suffering.”

However, Cassel wasn’t the only noteworthy individual in attendance at the event. In fact, American Idol champion David Cook as well as HGTV personality Jennifer Bertrand where just a couple of the others on hand. Together, those in attendance continued the evening’s goal of raising funds to both strengthen Shadow Buddies existing programs and develop new ones focused upon enhancing the lives of children.

While this is his first season in the Red and Gold, Cassel has already become involved with local charitable organizations including Shadow Buddies. Earlier this year, Cassel made a hospital visit on behalf of the foundation. There, he visited with children staying at the hospital as he distributed “buddies.” In fact, the specific “buddy” he distributed was a version made in his likeness. He’s just the second NFL player to have his very own “buddy” commissioned.

By year’s end, the Shadow Buddies Foundation will have distributed over 800,000 buddies since its start 14 years ago. Shadow Buddies are condition-specific dolls that are dispersed to youth and the elderly. These “buddies” depict the same condition as the person that receives it as a way to help remind them that they aren’t alone in their struggles.

Each year at the Shadow Buddies Foundation Dinner, the Miles Award is given to a volunteer, staff, board member, or community leader that has gone above and beyond the call of duty in support of Shadow Buddies programs. Always the evening’s highlight, the Miles award stands for Magnificent Individual Lending Extra Smiles.

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