While making a major impact on the field, Mike Tauchman also should be celebrated for the philanthropic work he has spearheaded off the field.

Following the birth of his daughter, Remi -- who was born with a cleft palate and initially required an NG tube for the first three months of her life -- Mike and his wife, Eileen, turned their family’s experience into an opportunity to support others facing similar challenges.

Understanding firsthand the stress and uncertainty that families endure when a child requires extended hospital care, the Tauchmans organized a care-package initiative during a White Sox home game at the end of June. Alongside staff, players’ families and partners, they assembled care packages for parents and children navigating hospital stays for cleft and other craniofacial conditions. These comfort bags included stuffed animals for babies, a non-spill sippy cup, silicone spoon, $20 Dunkin’ gift card, blanket, long charging cord, baby book and essentials for post-surgery care such as lip balm and wipes. The packages were delivered to a nearby children’s hospital and intended to ease the burden families often feel during these difficult moments.

Timed around National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month this July, the Tauchman family expanded its efforts by launching a fundraising campaign at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood, further sustaining support for this cause. They pledged to personally match donations up to their goal of $18,000, a tribute to Mike’s number and commitment that doubles the impact of every dollar contributed. To further inspire participation, donors sending $18 or more were automatically entered into a raffle for a unique White Sox gameday experience, including a meet and greet on the ballpark’s warning track. Donations already have exceeded $21,000 and will be used toward everything, from transportation to meals for families navigating hospital stays.

Mike’s leadership and empathy have brought visibility to families who often feel overlooked and alone. His work is rooted in listening and understanding, driven by the desire to make life a little easier for others who are on a journey his family knows all too well. Whether through raising funds, providing essentials or simply offering encouragement, Mike Tauchman’s actions have a lasting impact on the community.