Kevin Dowling Remembered At 'Christmas Is For Kids' Toy Drive, Saturday, At Bourbon St

CHICAGO, IL — Nobody loved kids more than Kevin Dowling, who was 17 when he collapsed in extreme heat during football practice in the scorching summer of 1995. He died of liver failure several weeks later.

Kevin’s family will be keeping his memory alive at the 26th annual Kevin Dowling ‘Christmas Is For Kids’ toy drive that takes place Saturday, Dec. 6. Bring a new, unwrapped toy, book, gift card or make a donation from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St., Merrionette Park.

Kevin's parents, Jim and Marge Dowling

Admission to the toy drive is FREE, which features food, beverages and raffles. There will be activities for kids including face painting, popcorn and visits with Santa. Or, be a Santa sponsor for $500, and an elf sponsor for $300. The toy drive is also accepting donations of raffle prizes.

New toys and books will be distributed to children’s hospitals and child welfare organizations, including:

OSF Little Company of Mary Medical Center
COURAGE Program of Oak Lawn
La Rabida Children’s Hospital in memory of Tom Fenton
Loyola Medical Center’s Child Life Services, in honor of Beau Dowling
Keyser Center at Advocate Children’s Hospital-Oak Lawn

The co-captain of the Mt. Carmel High School football team, Kevin had a tremendous work ethic. School did not come easily to him, and he was diagnosed with a learning disability. His family describes him as a kind, fun-loving, honest young man who loved sports and spending time with his family and friends.

Kevin Dowling Toy Drive 2024

Checks can be made payable to the Kevin Dowling Toy Drive, or send gift cards, which will be used to buy toys and books, to: Attn: Kevin Dowling Toy Drive, 3133 W. 102nd St., Evergreen Park, IL 60805.
Or via Zelle (7739726264) or Venmo (Jim-McKeever-5).

Questions about the toy drive or sponsorships can be directed to Jim McKeever at 773-972-6264 or email,jg.mckeever@att.net

Connor McKeever (left to right), Maureen Shields, of COURAGE, Jim McKeever, Peggy McKeever, Maureen O'Grady, also of COURAGE, and Patrick McKeever at last year's toy drive.