Skylar Stecker Recognized as Entertainer of the Year

You may not know her name yet, but you will. 9-year-old Skylar Stecker has caught the attention of thousands of fans for her powerful voice and incredible stage presence. She is also making a difference in the lives of children with physical disabilities by using her voice to help a nonprofit, Wheelchairs 4 Kids. The charity provides wheelchairs, ramps, and other assistive devices to children with mobility challenges. Skylar's rendition of Christina Aguilera's "Beautiful" has raised thousands of dollars for the nonprofit. Wheelchairs 4 Kids recently awarded her their "Entertainer of the Year" Award.

"She's our first recipient", stated Madeline Robinson, executive director of Wheelchairs 4 Kids. "We are a young organization and are thrilled to have Skylar serve as our first celebrity ambassador. She has a huge voice and an even bigger heart. Her understanding and empathy for these kids is amazing. She believes with all her heart that every child deserves the right to be able to participate in life as fully as possible. Skylar gets it…and she's only 9 years old"!

Asked about the honor, Skylar said, ": I felt so honored to do the song for the Wheelchairs 4 Kids video. And when I got the cool trophy and letter and realized that I had made a difference in helping other kids, it made me feel really good and I can't wait to help again!

Skylar is the daughter of former NFL player, Aaron Stecker and his wife, Kara. Her parents have always been involved in various charities and believe that it is imperative that we teach our children the importance of helping others. "We are excited for Skylar and her future in singing but more importantly, we are excited about the wonderful person she is and her passion she has for helping other children." stated Skylar's mom, Kara. Her father couldn't be prouder, "It's important to give back and when we do, we hope as parents that our kids will follow our example and do the same. So, I couldn't be happier that Skylar is doing her part in helping to raise money for Wheelchairs 4 kids! She has definitely found her passion…giving!"

Skylar's talent was discovered recently when, unbeknownst to her parents, she entered herself in a school talent show! She surprised everyone with her tremendous gift. Since then, she has been in great demand, singing the National Anthem in front of 60,000 people at a September 11th Air Show and at various sporting events including a hockey game in front of 17,000 fans. The arena erupted and the NBC affiliate received so many calls and emails about it that they decided to put the entire performance on their website.

Wheelchairs 4 Kids is dedicated to improving the lives of children with physical disabilities by providing wheelchairs, ramps, home and vehicle modifications as well as other assistive devices. Many children in the United States faced with living with physical disabilities are in wheelchairs that are too small, in disrepair, or do not fit the needs of the child. Children often outgrow their wheelchairs before government or insurance programs will allow for a replacement. Not only is it unsafe for a child to be in a chair that is inadequate for their needs, but it can impact their health in numerous ways including scoliosis, respiratory problems and pressure sores.

Learn more about Skylar and view her scheduled appearances at http://skylarstar.com/

For more information or to make a donation, please visit http://wheelchairs4kids.org/or call

(727) 946-0963.

To watch the video featuring Skylar, please visit www.Wheelchairs4Kids.org. Her video is on the home page.

To see Skylar's performance of the National Anthem at the Badgers Game, please visit http://www.nbc15.com/home/headlines/9-Year-Olds_Anthem_Astonishes_Badger_Fans_133758123.html