Pucks for Autism hockey tournament raises $125K for new adaptive playground

Hockey players with every skill set hit the ice last month to help those impacted by autism.

More than 650 players participated in the Pucks for Autism event held at Glacier Ice Arena in Vernon Hills. Fifty-eight teams played in the three-day hockey tournament held June 25-27. Proceeds from the sixth annual event benefit the Special Education District of Lake County Foundation.

Shawn Pfeiffer, founder of Pucks for Autism, said they raised more than $125,000.

In addition to the fundraising component, Pfeiffer said the event raises awareness for those affected by autism. Players and officials wore autism-themed jerseys and honorary puck drop participants were featured.

"The equipment, programs and therapies needed to support children and young adults on the autism spectrum is very expensive," Pfeiffer said.

"The fundraising dollars we raise directly go back into the community to help fund these items to help provide these students the support they need in the classroom."

A majority of the fundraising dollars from Pucks for Autism will be used to build a playground at Fairhaven School in Mundelein.

"Fairhaven School is a therapeutic day school that supports children on the autism spectrum from early education to transition," Pfeiffer said.

"The playground will feature adaptive playground equipment to help accommodate (them)."