New Kids Zone at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Will Allow Diana Riley's Memory to Live On

When Diana Riley passed away suddenly in 2008, her husband, Steve, approached Kickoff for Kids about making donations to the local non-profit organization in her memory. Diana, who was known for her love and dedication to children, was an avid supporter of the group and the work it does to give back to the community by supporting its children.

Mike LaSpisa, chairman of Kickoff for Kids and friend of the Rileys, felt strongly that donations should directly benefit children in the community. As a result, Kickoff for Kids has generously pledged $30,000 to the Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation to name a family waiting lounge in the in Diana's memory and to help create a Kids Zone in the Emergency Department.

With support from Steve, who is the owner of in Elmhurst, and proceeds from the annual Diana Riley Memorial Golf Outing, Diana's legacy will live on at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital.

"Riley's Gathering Place is a perfect example of a local business that has come forward to support an important cause," LaSpisa said. "Diana loved kids and was a friend and big supporter of our charity. It's sad how this was started, but it's the perfect way to honor her memory."

The Kids Zone consists of a 42-inch TV, a Sony PlayStation and games, Disney DVDs and a variety of other children's activities, including books, magazines, puzzles, coloring books, crayons, dry erase boards and markers. The organization has also donated Sony PlayStations for the hospital's pediatric inpatient rooms and supported children's activities at the Elmhurst Memorial Hospital grand opening community festival in June.

"A visit to the emergency department can be scary for anyone, and children especially need a welcome distraction, which Kickoff for Kids has made possible," said Sandra Nelson, president of Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation. "We are so grateful for this generous gift that has created an area to help kids have a more enjoyable experience while they are waiting."

Since its inception in 2001, Kickoff for Kids has tried to level the playing field for local kids in need by fund-raising to provide grants, scholarships and donations to worthy causes. The organization supports a summer reading program through and recognizes Elmhurst teachers through its . In addition to the Diana Riley Memorial Golf Outing, Kickoff for Kids hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a Lake Geneva Golf Outing and its upcoming Holiday Gala at River Forest Country Club Nov. 12.

For more information, visit www.kickoffforkids.org.