Sometimes individuals who play between the lines can step beyond those borders to make a great impact in their community and that's exactly what Spokane native Mark Rypien is doing with his foundation.
The first-ever Hope Classic teed off this afternoon at Kalispel Golf and Country Club. It's a two-day event that will raise well over $100,000 for local families battling childhood cancer.
One of those families positively impacted by these efforts are the Rehkow's out of Central Valley. Cameron, son of Freddie and Kim, is in the middle of his battle with Leukemia. He was not only honored with the inaugural 'Hope Lights the Way' award last night, but he also took the ceremonial first swing to begin the day's round of golf.
Mark Rypien lost a child to cancer and his fund continues to fight for others, like Cameron, in our community.
"It's just awesome," Cam said. "Knowing what this money can do for other kids--it makes me feel good because other kids will have an easier time going through what they're going through."
Mark Rypien said,"We're here for an opportunity to help young children. When you see a sick child, a suffering child, people in this community care and it's all worth while."
The Rypien Foundation was established in 2004.