Introduction
April is National Volunteer Month, an opportunity to recognize individuals and groups who generously contribute their time and energy to support organizations across the country. At Easterseals Central Illinois, volunteers are essential to advancing our mission to provide pediatric therapy, early intervention, and support services for children with developmental delays and disabilities. One group that has made a particularly meaningful impact is the Mid-Illini Bandits.
About the Mid-Illini Bandits
The Mid-Illini Bandits are a Central-Illinois-based girls’ travel softball organization that has grown from three teams to nine, competing in states such as Kentucky, Indiana, and Iowa. With a strong presence at Nationals and a recent second-place state finish, the Bandits exemplify excellence both on and off the field.
In addition to their athletic accomplishments, the Bandits are deeply committed to service and community involvement. They support causes such as Tazewell Animal Protective Society (TAPS), the Salvation Army, and Hits for the Cure—where 25% of their Saturday night event proceeds go toward helping children battling cancer. They also provide scholarships to players and have championed their own event, Angels 4 Autism, which directly benefits Easterseals Central Illinois.
"Life is bigger than the game we’re playing on the field," says Bandits President Brandon Gore, whose personal connection to Easterseals Central Illinois inspired the team’s involvement.
Brandon’s youngest son, Brady, is 12 years old, nonverbal, and autistic. Brady previously received services through Easterseals Central Illinois. In 2023, Brandon and the Bandits launched Angels 4 Autism, raising $12,000 in each of its first two years.
Making an Impact
Now in their third year of volunteering and fundraising, the Bandits have raised a running total of $39,000 for Easterseals Central Illinois. During the first half of April, all 109 of their players sold raffle tickets for prize packages, with 100% of the proceeds going to Easterseals Central Illinois. They also returned for their third consecutive appearance at the Easterseals Telethon, working the phones and encouraging donations.
Beyond their fundraising efforts, Brandon and Secretary/Treasurer Leslie Atkinson work hard to make sure their athletes understand who they are supporting—and why it matters. From service center tours to inviting Easterseals Central Illinois clients to throw out ceremonial first pitches, the Bandits are creating space for awareness, inclusion, and empowerment.
A Legacy of Giving Back
The Bandits are showing the next generation of leaders what it means to make a difference. Volunteering teaches empathy, perspective, and the importance of showing up for others—values that Leslie and Brandon instill both on and off the field.
“It’s a little bit life-changing to know you’re giving back to someone else,” Leslie says.
“These kids need people who actually care,” Brandon adds. “If you’re volunteering, it has to be for the right reasons. Not for self-accolades—but because you want to be there for the kids who need it most.”
For Brandon, this work is deeply personal. He has witnessed how Easterseals Central Illinois transformed Brady’s world. With the help of autism services, therapeutic tools, and sensory regulation strategies, Brady’s behavioral outbursts—ranging from slamming his fist on a table out of frustration to occasional aggression toward others—have decreased from over 90 per week to just 15.
Speaking about the difference in Brady’s behaviors, Brandon explains “It’s night and day. We’re trying to teach him that he can control how he responds, even if he can’t control his surroundings. And that’s one of the harder aspects for my son, but we’re getting there.”
Leslie has seen that growth firsthand as well. “I’ve been able to see the progression in Brady over six years through the services of Easterseals.”
Together, Brandon and Leslie have translated personal experience into meaningful action, using the Bandits platform to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and give back.
Get Involved
We are so grateful for the Mid-Illini Bandits and their continued commitment to our organization. This National Volunteer Month, we invite you to get involved too. Whether through a one-time event or an ongoing role, your support can make a meaningful difference.
🎻 Bonus Highlight: Easterseals Central Illinois Ambassador Elijah performed a cello solo at a recent Bandits game—an incredible showcase of talent and community connection.
📱 Want to catch a game? You can find the Mid-Illini Bandits 18U and 12U game schedules by downloading the GameChanger app.
👉 Learn how to get involved with Easterseals Central Illinois: Take Action
To the Mid-Illini Bandits—and to all our incredible volunteers—thank you. You are the heart of our mission.
