Hundreds Support Fundraiser For Foundation In Memory of New Lenox Man

NEW LENOX, IL — The inaugural fundraiser for a foundation in memory of a beloved New Lenox man drew hundreds of attendees Oct. 26, in a touching show of support for the family and nonprofit.

The Tyler Koscinski Memorial Foundation benefit hosted at the JBD White Horse Inn, drew a crowd of more than 250 attendees, organizers told Patch.

The foundation—started in honor of Koscinski, 20, following his death in a September crash—has been established to support athletes like Koscinski. The New Lenox native was a dedicated athlete and beloved member of the New Lenox community.

The event brought together friends, family, and supporters from within the community and elsewhere, demonstrating the widespread impact Tyler had on everyone he met, his family said. A suggested entry donation of $20 was asked of attendees; the foundation raised substantial funds, which will be used to support scholarships and other initiatives to benefit young athletes in need within the community.

"We are overwhelmed by the incredible support and generosity we felt at the event. Seeing so many people come together to honor Tyler’s memory means the world to us," said Kelly Koscinski, Tyler's mother. "We are deeply grateful to the White Horse for providing such a warm and welcoming space for our first event and to everyone who donated, attended, or reached out in support. Thank you for helping us keep Tyler’s legacy alive."

The foundation was started shortly after Tyler's death, when a GoFundMe started by a family friend generated more than $30,000 initially, and more than $40,000 to-date. The founders' hope is to support athletes like Tyler—those fueled by passion and intense focus. Tyler played both football and baseball, matriculating through local youth sports clubs such as the New Lenox Mustangs Youth Football and Cheerleading. He was a dual-sport athlete until he turned his focus entirely to baseball later in high school.

"Tyler's love for athletics and his unwavering dedication to his team and peers inspire us to support the next generation of student-athletes," the foundation's leaders wrote in its introduction. "All donations to the foundation will be directed towards scholarships and support for young athletes in the Lincoln-Way area, ensuring that Tyler’s spirit continues to drive excellence and opportunity in the world of sports. ... We want to assure you that every contribution will have a meaningful impact."

"We want to inspire and help the athletes through the foundation," his mother Kelly Koscinski previously told Patch, noting they will likely focus on Lincoln-Way West students. "Just like Tyler was helped."

Find a full gallery from the event on Courtney Ann Photography LLC's website.

The founders "believe that every young athlete should have the opportunity to chase their dreams, regardless of their financial background. The Tyler Koscinski Memorial Foundation seeks to break down those financial barriers, fostering personal growth, community involvement, and the pursuit of excellence in both sports and life," according to its mission statement.

"The foundation is dedicated to empowering young athletes by providing scholarships to help them afford the essential equipment they need to compete. Additionally, we hope to provide scholarships for higher education down the road, helping athletes further both their academic and athletic journeys."

The foundation has recently achieved incorporation as an official nonprofit with the Illinois Secretary of State and has secured its EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. The foundation is now actively pursuing 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status to further its mission. Once approved, the foundation will be able to offer tax-deductible donation receipts to all contributors. A website is also now active, offering an online store, details on events, and scholarship information.

All funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign, the Oct. 26 fundraiser, and other generous donations have been earmarked specifically for the foundation, allowing its leaders to provide scholarships and support to young athletes, continuing Koscinski's legacy in a meaningful way. In addition to scholarships, the foundation is working to pinpoint ways it might support the athletics program at Lincoln-Way West.

"I can’t say enough about the support we’ve received. It means the world to know so many people remember him and help us give back to the community in his name," said Tyler's father, Chris Koscinski. "Tyler loved his sports and his friends, and seeing everyone come together like this is a reminder of the impact he had on all of us. We’re thankful to the White Horse for hosting and to everyone who came out or donated to make this happen."

The family presented the bar's owners with a sign to hang behind the bar, glowing with "TK9" in honor of Tyler who was a barback at the mainstay New Lenox business.

"Tyler’s spirit and love of life were reflected in every single person who joined us at the benefit," said Connor Lowman, Tyler's brother. "We’re beyond thankful for the support from our community and all the amazing people who donated. This is just the beginning, and with the ongoing support of friends, family, and our community, we are determined to make a lasting positive impact."