September 6, 2025
The excitement was palpable in the early morning of August 12th. By 6:30 AM, the incredible members of SNAAP – Special Needs Are Awesome People – were gathering. This wasn't just another day; this was the day they were boarding a chartered bus bound for the famous Lambeau Field, home of the legendary Green Bay Packers. By 7:00 AM sharp, wheels were rolling, carrying a group ready for an unforgettable adventure made possible by incredible community support – a $1000 matching grant from the Iron Area Health Foundation, generously doubled by a special donor who also provided SNAAP with a much-needed printer.
The journey, fueled by generosity, had begun.
Thank you, Iron Area Health Foundation!
The miles flew by, and at 9:30 AM, the SNAAP crew arrived, stepping off the bus into a day destined to be etched in their memories. The hospitality of Green Bay Packers Guest Services was felt instantly. SNAAP was able to park in an accessible parking space closer to the entrance, and wheelchairs were available for members who needed them, ensuring everyone could comfortably navigate the vast stadium.
Greeted in a special area, they were treated to a unique thrill: meeting some of the Green Bay Packers players riding bikes and scooters, and interacting warmly with the group. Autographs were signed, smiles were exchanged, and then it was time to settle in the bleachers to watch the Packers practice from a unique vantage point, witnessing their heroes in action during the 2025 Training Camp.
Green Bay Packers Training Camp 2025
🧀 A not-to-miss opportunity for a few "cheesy" photos of true "Cheesehead" fans! 🧀
Next came the two-hour stadium tour. Every step of the tour felt tailored. The kindness continued as each SNAAP member received a special gift package from Guest Services – a tangible memento of their extraordinary day.
But the generosity of the Packers organization didn't stop there. Keith Cronin, Guest Services Manager for the past 17 years, deserves a special MVP shoutout. Keith and his entire team exemplified going above and beyond. The Guest Services Team exhibited patience and attentiveness, understanding the significance of this trip for SNAAP. They ensured every detail contributed to the groups' safety and comfort.
Thank you Packers Guest Services for your true hospitality!
Keith Cronin, Guest Services Manager
SNAAP members felt on top of the world sitting in the Club Seats as part of the Legendary Stadium Tour. This was a highlight for SNAAP President Carol Foskuhl - a diehard Packer fan - and her family. Her daughter Destiny and her father, Dan, Sr., were all smiles as they enjoyed this rare glimpse of some of the best seats in the house. This was a true bucket list moment.
No tour is complete without a peek behind the scenes! The group got to step inside the iconic Packers locker room where they got the chance to sit in the players' cubbies – imagining what it feels like to gear up for game day in that very spot.
Green Bay Packers Locker Room Tour
Our guide (photo, left), whose name we unfortunately missed but whose kindness we won't forget, went the extra mile – literally! She ensured the group experienced the ultimate Lambeau moment: walking through the legendary tunnel that leads the players onto the field.
The group emerged from the dim tunnel into the bright light of the stadium bowl, stepping onto the track surrounding the hallowed turf.
The grass, protected by signs and barriers, felt sacred. Standing in the immense stadium stretched before them, where legends like Lombardi, Starr, Favre, and Rodgers have stood was humbling and exhilarating.
Even with limited energy or mobility at times, the happy crew pushed through the pain to enjoy these special moments together, including a community photo by the famous Lambeau football field.
SNAAP is going places! Dream day at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin
This trip meant the world to everyone, but for one member, Eva, the impact was particularly profound. When the trip was announced a couple of months ago, Eva didn't just get excited – she sobbed tears of pure joy. Eva, along with the group,
had worked hard participating in wellness challenges and helping with fundraisers. Her reaction speaks volumes about the journey Eva herself has been on. Just a few short months ago, Eva would barely speak when she came to SNAAP gatherings. But week by week, surrounded by the unwavering support and friendship of her SNAAP family, her confidence has blossomed. This trip, the anticipation, the shared experience – it was a powerful testament to how far she's come. Seeing her joy at Lambeau, fully participating, feeling the embrace of her community – that was as epic as the stadium itself.
We're proud of you, Eva!
After a stop to Golden Corral for a well-deserved lunch, the group headed home. The bus was humming but the journey was quieter - contentment mixed with exhaustion.
As the sun dipped low in the sky, a rainbow was spotted outside the reflective glass of the bus window- a perfect ending to an epic 14+ hour adventure. The bus pulled into Iron River around 8:30 pm. SNAAP members pushed through discomfort and managed their needs with courage, embracing every moment in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Not only did SNAAP leave Lambeau field with autographs, gift bags, and memories, but they were also given a football signed by the 2024 Roster of the Green Bay Packers. This special item will be auctioned on October 18th at the 1st Annual Spaghetti Feed and Silent auction in Iron River, MI.
For Locals in Iron Co. -- Stay tuned for details about your chance to bid on this incredible Packers-signed football and support more epic SNAAP adventures and transformations!
Dan Baumgartener, Sr., Carol's father, enjoyed the tour of Lambeau Field.
Blog post written by Sandra Martin
Photos by Carol Foskuhl
September 6, 2025