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The Red Carpet Experience


Thanks to the University of Nebraska Athletic Department and its new Red Carpet Experience program, Danny and Makih, two brothers affiliated with Boys Town Foster Family Services, were recently able to attend the Husker football season opener against Fordham at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln.

The Red Carpet Experience provides complimentary tickets to underserved youth across the state of Nebraska.

The program is being coordinated by Lawrence Chatters, Nebraska's Senior Associate Athletic Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Boys Town's Director of Foster Family Services, Matt Priest, reached out to Chatters to see if Danny and Makih would qualify for the ticket opportunity and he was soon notified that they, indeed, did.

“The Red Carpet Experience is about increasing access to more underserved youth across our state," Chatters said. “There are a number of young Husker fans who are unable to attend a football game due to their economic circumstances. We are hopeful this initiative will open up the opportunity to experience the great atmosphere of Memorial Stadium."

But Chatters said the goal is to provide something more than just a sports experience.

“This is about more than football," he said. “When we get together on game days, our stadium becomes a beacon of hope as people from all different walks of life come together to cheer for a common cause."

Makih recently graduated from Boys Town High School and is living with his brother Danny, who is his foster parent. They work together at a landscaping company and spend most of their time together. This was the first time either of them had been to a Husker game, and they were so impressed with the experience that they are still talking about it.

“They actually shot a video of the quarterback running for a touchdown," Priest said. “It was one of their favorite moments."

Priest said both young men showed their gratitude for the opportunity to attend the game.

“They were very thankful for Boys Town reaching out to the University and for them granting our request. It is an experience Makih and Danny will never forget," he said.​

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