Celebrating 15 Years of Matching Disabled Youth with College Athletes-Over 4,500 Kids Discover the Power of — 2026-05-17

## Short Segments Welcome to Impact Vector, where we spotlight stories of positive change and progress. Today, we're diving into a remarkable initiative that's been transforming lives for 15 years. Later, we'll explore how a Boston-based nonprofit has connected over 4,500 children with college athletes, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Stay tuned for this inspiring feature story. ## Feature Story Celebrating 15 years of impactful connections, Team IMPACT has matched over 4,500 children facing serious illnesses and disabilities with college sports teams across the United States. This Boston-based nonprofit has created a network that spans more than 850 colleges and universities, engaging over 112,500 student-athletes in a mission to foster belonging, empowerment, and resilience. Since its inception in 2011, Team IMPACT has been transforming lives by pairing children with college teams, offering them not just a jersey, but a sense of family and community. The initiative began with a single match between a child and a college hockey team in Massachusetts, and has since grown into a nationwide movement. One of the many success stories is that of Mack, an 11-year-old from Needham living with cerebral palsy. Recently "drafted" by Northeastern University's men's hockey team, Mack now has a team behind him, providing support and camaraderie that extend beyond the rink. His story is just one of thousands that illustrate the profound impact of these partnerships. The collaboration between Team IMPACT and the NCAA further amplifies this impact. By fostering long-term relationships between collegiate student-athletes and youths, the partnership aims to inspire and promote a sense of belonging and resilience among children facing significant challenges. This strategic collaboration is set to expand Team IMPACT's reach, bringing its life-changing model to more families and NCAA student-athletes across all three divisions. For children facing illness and disability, the power of belonging can be transformative. Team IMPACT's model provides these children with a support system that extends beyond their immediate family, offering them hope and a sense of normalcy. The initiative not only benefits the children but also enriches the lives of the student-athletes who participate, teaching them empathy and the value of community service. As Team IMPACT celebrates this milestone, the organization continues to look forward, aiming to reach even more children and expand its network of supportive college teams. The stories of empowerment and resilience that emerge from these partnerships serve as a testament to the power of community and the difference that a supportive team can make in a child's life. Looking ahead, Team IMPACT's ongoing efforts to connect children with college athletes promise to bring hope and belonging to even more families. As the organization continues to grow, it remains committed to its mission of transforming lives through the power of sports and community. That's all for today's feature on Impact Vector. Join us next time as we continue to explore stories of positive change and innovation. Until then, stay inspired and keep making a difference.