Studebaker has big impact in Central Illinois this summer

WMBD/WYZZ-TV STAFF - PEORIA, IL - Andy Studebaker is getting ready for Kansas City Chiefs training camp this week.  The Eureka native made a huge impact  on Central Illinois this summer.

Andy Studebaker is all about giving back the communities that gave his so much over the years...this past June, he held a youth football camp for kids in Morton...with all the proceeds going to the Children's Hospital of Illinois.

"It's neat to have kids from all over the area, from different towns come together and get with coaches who are experienced in playing the game, but care enough about the kids and care about their development," said Andy Studebaker, Chiefs Linebacker.

Care is the keyword here. Studebaker cared enough to put football on the backburner...and also visit young kids in the hospital.

"He came to the room and it was like real life for them to see that this guy has taken the time out, just five minutes to say hi to them," said Demetra Gaines, Children's Hospital of Illinois.  "He showed them that they mean so much to him."

Showing kids that he roots for them, just as much as they cheer for him on the field."

It's just nice to be able to see some faces.  We're running a football camp, but there are kids here who are going through a tough time with thier families.  If we can just go and hang out with them for a little while, get to know their story, bring a smile to their faces, sign a few autographs and take some pictures," said Studebaker. "If it makes their day better, that makes this all worth it."