Outline:
A Year of Generosity and Community in Northeast Ohio
Over the past year, Northeast Ohio has experienced a wave of generosity, joy, and connection, all fueled by a shared belief that giving back can truly change lives. This belief is at the core of Power of Inspiration, a collaboration between WKYC Studios and Kaulig Companies, led by Executive Chairman Matt Kaulig. As the series wraps up another impactful year, Kaulig joined WKYC anchor Jay Crawford to reflect on the stories, smiles, and communities touched along the way.
More Than Donations — Creating Momentum
From the very beginning, Power of Inspiration was designed to be more than just about writing checks. Its mission was clear: to spotlight local organizations doing meaningful work and inspire others to get involved. “We’ve had the chance to work with so many amazing organizations and see firsthand how a little support can make a big difference in kids’ lives and in our communities,” Kaulig said.
This spirit of community engagement played out across Northeast Ohio and beyond through a wide range of events focused on kids, families, and community connection.
A Year of Unforgettable Moments
The year kicked off in a big way at Daytona International Speedway, where volunteers built bicycles for children from the Boys & Girls Club during NASCAR’s Speediatrics Fun Day. For many kids, it was their first brand-new bike — and the smiles said it all.
“It wasn’t about racing that day,” Crawford recalled. “It was about slowing down and making kids happy.”
Back in Northeast Ohio, the series continued with several impactful events:
- Denzel Ward’s "Make Them Know Your Name Foundation’s" football camp at Nordonia High School, giving kids access to coaching, mentorship, and confidence-building experiences they might not otherwise have.
- Putting with Police, in partnership with First Tee Greater Akron, bringing kids and local law enforcement together on the golf course to build trust and positive relationships.
- CC Sabathia’s Pitcch In Foundation Camp, helping young athletes grow both on and off the baseball field.
Each stop reinforced a simple idea: showing up matters.
Spreading Comfort When It’s Needed Most
One of the most emotional moments of the year came at Akron Children’s Hospital, where Kaulig Companies teamed up with NASCAR and the NASCAR Foundation’s Speedy Bear Brigade for National Teddy Bear Day. Across 135 hospitals nationwide, more than 20,000 teddy bears were delivered to children spending days or weeks in the hospital.
In Akron, the visit included a parade, appearances by NASCAR drivers, and even the University of Akron marching band. “It’s never good when a kid has to be in the hospital,” Crawford said. “But if you want to make a kid smile, you give them a teddy bear.”
Inspiring Others to Take Part
Kaulig says that inspiration — not recognition — is the real goal of the series. “One person can make a difference, but a community can make a world of difference,” he said. He emphasized that giving doesn’t have to mean money. Donating time, volunteering, giving gently used clothing, or supporting causes that matter — from kids and veterans to pets, food insecurity, and the arts — all count.
“There are a billion ways you can get involved,” Kaulig said. “That’s the power of inspiration.”
Looking Ahead
While the year closed with reflection, Kaulig is already looking forward — including a new NASCAR reality competition series called “Race for the Seat,” where 15 drivers will compete for a spot on one of Kaulig Racing’s five trucks in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
But no matter what’s next, the message of Power of Inspiration remains the same: meaningful change starts when people choose to help. And as this year showed, when a community comes together, the impact can be extraordinary.