Number of Participants: 14
Hours Donated: 6
Value of Time Served: $2,922
Event Amount Raised: $1,500
Event Type: Health & Medicine
Activity: Softball
School: Walt Whitman High School
Date: May 5, 2026
Location:
Walt Whitman Shops
Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station
NY
About:
The Walt Whitman Wildcats Softball recently demonstrated the true meaning of compassion, leadership, and community support through a heartfelt fundraiser game benefiting the Stony Brook Children’s Hospital Pediatric Palliative Care Unit.
Although the Wildcats came up short on the scoreboard against the Sachem East Arrows Softball, the evening was a tremendous success as the teams and community came together to raise more than $1,500 to support families caring for children facing end-of-life care. The funds raised will help provide comfort, support, and resources to families navigating some of life’s most difficult moments.
The game was held in honor of Callie Noelle Alt, the daughter of Walt Whitman math teacher Bradie Alt, her husband James, and big sister Rowan. Callie tragically passed away at just nine months old on September 27, 2025, due to a rare genetic mutation known as COL4A1. By dedicating the evening to Callie’s memory, the Wildcats helped raise awareness while honoring her life in a deeply meaningful way.
Both teams wore red in Callie’s honor, symbolizing unity, love, and support for families facing similar circumstances. Prior to the game, team captains shared a heartfelt message with those in attendance, emphasizing the importance of supporting families coping with the loss of a child and recognizing the mission of the Pediatric Palliative Care Unit.
The evening also featured a special pregame ceremony as the Alt family was welcomed onto the field to speak and throw out the ceremonial first pitch. The emotional moment brought together players, coaches, families, and supporters from both communities in a powerful show of compassion and solidarity.
Student-athletes played an important role in organizing and promoting the fundraiser. From coordinating game-day efforts to running raffles and engaging the community, the Wildcats worked together to make a meaningful impact beyond softball. The team also received tremendous support from local businesses that generously donated raffle prizes and apparel, helping expand fundraising efforts throughout the event.
Initiatives like this highlight the powerful role athletics can play in bringing communities together around causes that matter. Through teamwork, empathy, and service, the Walt Whitman softball program transformed a game into an opportunity to honor Callie’s memory, support families in need, and inspire others through kindness and action.
Their efforts serve as a reminder that the impact of high school athletics extends far beyond wins and losses, leaving a lasting difference in the lives of others.
