You may have seen John Kalish around town over the last couple of years.
You just may not have known it. But did you see Batman? That was Kalish, the man behind the Batman mask and Caped Crusader disguise, dressing as the superhero at charity events as part of A Hero For Kids, his veteran-founded, all-volunteer organization that collects backpacks, books, school supplies and more for kids at local schools.
You may have even seen his version of the Batmobile, or in this case the Hero Car (www.CentralFloridaHeroCar.com).
While Batman might be a hero, it’s that time of year for Kalish to call out Osceola County’s other heroes, who dress like everyday people.
A Hero For Kids’ annual Real Heroes Don’t Wear Capes Awards Gala will, for the third time, take place at the Embassy Suites Lake Buena Vista South (Vineland Road at Kyngs Heath) on Oct. 16 from 5-11 p.m.
Tickets and sponsorships are available (but running out!) starting at $75 for a table seat. Information can be found at AHeroForKids.org.
The proceeds go towards A Hero For Kids’ main family initiatives during the year, including a Back To School supply drive, meals at Thanksgiving and gifts at Christmas for families in need.
“The support we’ve gotten from the community has been amazing, especially these last 18 months or so during the pandemic,” Kalish said. “We’re looking to help over 700 families this year.”
Like the last two versions, the organization will recognize unsung heroes in our community who go above and beyond. Through the nomination process chosen by the community during September, unsung heroes will get their night in the spotlight (the Batsignal?). Nominees will come from law enforcement, Fire and Rescue, the medical field, a non-profit and local business and the ranks of volunteers, veterans, teachers, citizens and “an inspirer.” A Hero For Kids will also recognize
A Hero For Kids will also recognize a Lifetime Achievement awardee who has spent their life in service to the community.
The Hero For Kids website has a button to go to the page to make community nominations.
T h e ceremony will also include a live and silent auction as well as a banquet dinner.
“We’ve lined up a great new list of sponsors, and we’ve already got 200 people signed up to be a part of it this year,” Kalish said. “The momentum really comes from the community.”
That leaves just one burning question: why Batman?
It was fate. Looking for a way to promote a book giveaway while with Goodwill years ago, he sought a hook to make children excited about getting a book a n d reading. “I opened up Amazon and found a $38 costume, loved it, ordered it … then when I got it and put it on, I didn’t feel like Batman,” he said. “But a young kid will enjoy anything if it comes from Batman.”
To the area families helped, Kalish and others in the community can be heroes without a cape or supersuit — and can continue to be, thanks to the annual gala.
