Less than 24 hours after leading the Cyclones to a blowout victory over Troy State, ISU quarterback Seneca Wallace was at the Beloit campus Sunday afternoon to act as Grand Marshal for their Seventh Annual Blue Sky Day.

As part of the Lutheran Social Services of Iowa, the Beloit Center serves more than 30 children, all of whom have had severe setbacks in their lives, by supplying them with everything from clothing to toys. While the center does receive state money, the budget is tight and donations go a long way.

“Even if we wouldn’t raise a single cent today, the main thing is that we have a community turnout to let these kids know people really do care,” said Ed Ruppert, chair of the planning committee. “The event is really the highlight of their stay here.”

Ed was also thankful the ISU quarterback could take time out from hanging with an ESPN film crew to stop by for the kids.

“Having Seneca being able to be with us today is great. Not only is he a classy football player, but he’s a class act off the field as well,” Ruppert said.

In addition to his name, Wallace also lent his signature.

Wallace signed several footballs to be auctioned off, with the money going directly to the Beloit Center.

“It’s great to get everybody in the community together, and to get out here and support the kids,” Wallace said.

Wallace wasn’t the only athlete lending a hand at this year’s event. A host of ISU wrestlers were on hand to spend some time playing with the kids.

“It’s fun to get out here, throw the football around, play a little dodge ball with the kids,” said Ty Malia, a junior wrestler in the 125-pound weight class. “The kids and the community give so much to us; we just want to give back now.”

Tom Brumm, assistant professor in Agriculture and Biology Systems Engineering, took time out of his schedule to act as emcee for this year’s event.

Brumm said events like this are very important to the kids.

“This is a chance for the community to show up and really let these kids know someone wants to help,” Brumm said.

A 5K run, a support walk and a nine-mile bike ride were just some of the highlights on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

Volunteers accompanied the kids throughout the day.

Ruppert added that for any person or organization looking to help out in the community, these kids are a very worthy cause.

“These kids need help-the community’s support as well as the students’ support,” Ruppert said.

“Any person or organization looking to lend a hand in the community would be greatly appreciated, not only by us as staff members, but by these kids as well.”