Callahan making kids’ dreams come true with the Ryan Callahan Foundation

Ryan Callahan officially launched the Ryan Callahan Foundation, to help the children and their families affected by pediatric cancer.

The 501(c)3 foundation has the following three components:

Cally’s Crew - This part of the foundation is likely the most familiar for Lightning fans. Cally’s Crew hosts pediatric cancer patients and their families undergoing treatment in the foundation’s suite at Lightning games at Amalie Arena. On social media, the hashtag #CallysCrew has been giving fans an inside look into all the smiling faces of kids and their loved ones.

The 2-4 Club - This element of the Ryan Callahan Foundation will grant monthly wishes to children through an all-expenses paid trip, experience or other excursions. A sense of community and togetherness will be promoted as families share their stories on the foundation website.

Fundraising efforts - Additionally, the foundation will provide support through monetary funding and raising awareness both at the local and national levels. On Sept. 24, the foundation is supporting Karaoke for the Kure for 3-year-old Sofia. There’s also a TBA Cut for the Cure event, where Cally will be shaving the head of Lauren, an 8-year-old pediatric cancer patient.

Callahan said the following on the foundation’s website:

"With two daughters of our own, we are deeply moved by the strength and courage demonstrated by families whose own children are enduring cancer treatments. Through the RCF, our mission is to provide moments of family unity and to replace the hardship of battling cancer, with the opportunity to create everlasting memories of togetherness, hope and love."

Watch a clip of "Inside the Lightning: Ryan Callahan" that aired in March, where he talks about his charity work.

For more information and/or to get involved, visit the foundation online, Twitter and on Facebook.