AUG 16 (afternoon)--Yes, the majority of Kansas City’s gridiron gurus have had August 17, 2002 circled on their calendars for quite some time now. While Saturday’s tilt against the expansion Houston Texans affords locals their initial opportunity to get a first-hand look at this year’s edition of the Chiefs, the festivities surrounding the game itself have a much deeper meaning. Firstly, the contest has been designated as the 18th Annual Chiefs Children’s Benefit Game. In addition, Hall of Fame QB Len Dawson will announce the recipient of his 2002 Scholarship award.

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After 25 Years, the Len Dawson Scholarship continues to aid outstanding local students on their way to college. This year’s winner is William Chrisman’s very own Hiep Huynh.

While the faces on the team may have changed since the Inaugural Chiefs Children’s Benefit Game was played in 1985, but the dedication to help support local youth agencies continues.

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The Chiefs Children’s Benefit Game, which is just one of the many vehicles the Chiefs Children’s Fund uses to reach the community, is one of the largest of its kind in the NFL. Much like last season’s game, which netted more than $352,000, the Don Bosco Center and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City will receive vital funding through monies raised as a result of the game. In addition to the monetary support, the Benefit Game allows thousands of children who come from disadvantaged circumstance to attend the game.

The Chiefs Children’s Fund was established in 1983 and provides much-needed support to more than 60 local youth agencies annually. Since that time, the foundation has been unwavering in its aid to the youth of Kansas City.

For the past 25 years, the Len Dawson Scholarship has been honoring up-standing local students with much needed finances to help send these individuals to college. The scholarship is awarded on the basis of overall high school achievement, including academics, extracurricular activities, leadership ability and character. The 2002 Scholarship award will be presented at Saturday’s game to recent William Chrisman High School graduate Hiep Huynh. To honor Huynh, the Chiefs will present her with $1,000 in the name of their legendary franchise quarterback, Len Dawson.

"I am always so impressed with the caliber of individuals that receive the scholarship," Dawson noted. "Each year, they are such talented individuals, and not just academically. They are also very impressive people and Hiep is definitely that type of a person. She is a very well-rounded young lady."

So, as you watch Saturday’s battle either from Arrowhead Stadium or perched upon your favorite recliner, realize that you’re involved in something more important than just a football game. You’ve witnessed a touchdown scored in the game of life as well.

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- CHIEFS IN THE COMMUNITY-