Dear Friends:

Thank you so much for taking time to visit eddieskids.org. Here you'll learn about what we do, read some amazing stories, share a laugh and maybe even shed a tear.

Since 1991, I have been watching kids grow and thrive. It means so much to see children rewarded for their hard work. In these hectic, violent times, it's more important than ever to spend time with our kids. According to the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement, most small children spend only 42 minutes per day alone with their fathers, while they spend 5.6 hours in daycare. Most parents only get to see their kids three to six hours per week. More than half of children today live in homes where both parents are working, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And roughly 30 percent are being raised by only one parent.

And, of course, violence is everywhere - on TV, in movies and even in our kids' video games. Sadly, it's become part of the national fabric.

That's why it's crucial to give kids the attention and encouragement they need to grow, to thrive, to become productive, creative and healthy members of society. And do it in a way that reinforces positive activities like sports.

What does going to a basketball or a hockey game have to do with this? Sports represent a very positive aspect of people's lives. First of all, it's exciting to go to a live game. It's especially exciting if you've never been to one before. But what makes it all the more special is being able to share it with someone close to you - giving you a chance to bask in a warmth that you'll remember for the rest of your lives.

And that's why I started Eddie's Kids Charitable Foundation - to bring joy to our children and help bring their families closer together. I am overwhelmed every time I walk into an arena and see a hundred kids and their families sitting beneath our banner, cheering and laughing.

We aren't like a lot of charities. I'm proud to say that 100 percent of every dollar we receive goes toward a ticket for every deserving child we can reach. And we could never do it alone. Thousands of contributors, individuals, companies and other charities have been so generous over the years.

I want to take a moment to thank all our sponsors and the charities that work with us - too numerous to mention here. And I'd like to thank you again for stopping by. Please take some time to explore our site and find out who we are and what we do. Read the letters from the kids and see the difference you can make.

And, again, thanks for your kind support.

Sincerely,

Eddie Wedelstedt