UNION, N.J. (1/30/26) – Community service has long been a core pillar of the Kean University Softball program, and once again, the team lived those values during the Embrace Kids Foundation Holiday Party this past December. 

Fourteen members of the 2026 Kean Softball roster attended the foundation's 9th annual holiday celebration, which took place in Freehold, New Jersey. The event, themed "Wicked," paid homage to the highly anticipated 2025 sequel that debuted in theaters shortly before Thanksgiving. 

Founded in 1991, the Embrace Kids Foundation began as a grassroots initiative led by parents, friends, and medical professionals raising funds for children battling cancer and blood disorders. Over the past 35 years, the foundation has grown into a nationally recognized organization, now led by a dedicated group of community leaders who collectively invest approximately $1.5 million annually into programs and services provided at no cost to families. 
 

Throughout the event, Kean student-athletes spent meaningful time with children and their families, helping them build gingerbread houses while creating an atmosphere of joy, connection, and normalcy. 
 

Head Coach Margie Acker emphasized what it meant to have such a strong showing from her team. 

"Their willingness to volunteer reflects a strong sense of togetherness and shared values like empathy, service, and unity," Acker said. "It shows that our student-athletes are committed to making a positive impact beyond the field." 
 

Acts of service are deeply ingrained throughout the Kean University athletic department. In recent months, several programs have been highlighted for their own community outreach initiatives, including Track and Field's participation in the 24-Hour Vigil Walk supporting veterans' mental and physical health, and Baseball and Lacrosse players volunteering with Saturdays in Motion, the longest-running recreational program in the country designed for children with autism. 

Coach Acker also spoke about the significance of these moments for the children and their families, particularly during what can be an emotionally challenging time of year. 

"For the children, spending time with our players brings joy, normalcy, and a genuine connection," Acker said. "Those moments create lasting memories and remind them they're supported by a wider community." 
 

Among the student-athletes in attendance was NJAC Rookie of the Year Gina Mahlik, who spoke about how impactful the experience was for her. 

"My biggest takeaway was being able to help kids and cater to their different needs," Mahlik said. "It was a great experience to see kids in an environment where they could have fun and nothing else mattered. I learned that you can always make an impact, no matter how big or small." 

With her sophomore season approaching, Mahlik also reflected on how the experience strengthened the team's bond. 

"Seeing each other in a different environment that we don't normally get to experience was really special," she added. "That day brought us closer together, and nothing else mattered to us but helping the kids enjoy themselves." 

According to Coach Acker, participating in events like the Embrace Kids Foundation holiday party does more than build chemistry—it helps shape the culture of the program, especially for younger players. 

"Many of our athletes look forward to this event each year, and for newcomers, it's a powerful introduction to our culture," Acker said. "These experiences strengthen our team bond and help our players grow not only as athletes, but as people." 

As the Cougars gear up for the 2026 season, the team continues to exemplify that success is measured not only by wins and losses—but by the positive impact made within the community.