More Than a Kick began in 2023 when Dean Janikowski transformed his role as a Washington State University kicker into a mission-driven fundraising campaign for the Heather Janikowski Foundation. Inspired by his mother Heather’s legacy, Dean invited supporters to pledge donations for every field goal and extra point he made during the season — turning each kick into an opportunity to support families affected by cancer.
What started as a personal tribute quickly grew into a powerful annual movement. With increasing participation and community generosity each year, the campaign has raised significant funds to provide resources, encouragement, and direct support to local individuals battling cancer. Alongside related fundraising efforts, More Than a Kick has contributed to a growing legacy of impact — proving that leadership, heart, and sport can come together to create meaningful change.
2025: A Continued Legacy of Hope
For 2025, Dean once again launched More Than a Kick, keeping the campaign alive as part of his ongoing dedication to the Heather Janikowski Foundation. Though the official pledge‑it totals for this year will continue to grow throughout the season, Dean’s work has contributed to a broader fundraising legacy: the foundation has now raised more than $150,000 combined through More Than a Kick, Kicking Cancer events, and related community efforts supporting cancer patients and their families.
This year’s campaign deepens the mission even further — highlighting not only the generosity of donors, but the power of community to rally around local families in need. Each kick, each pledge, and each act of kindness underscores that Dean’s efforts are truly more than a kick — they are a testament to compassion, resilience, and the profound impact one person can have when their heart leads the way.
WSU Football Article: https://wsucougars.com/news/2024/11/26/football-dean-janikowski-named-allstate-wuerffel-trophy-finalist?utm
2024: Growing the Mission, Deepening the Impact
Dean returned stronger in 2024 with his second More Than a Kick campaign, fueled by the momentum and community support from the year before. This time, he set an ambitious goal and invited donors to pledge not only in support of individuals battling cancer, but also to help expand programs through the Heather Janikowski Foundation.
Once again, fans, friends, and supporters stepped up. Through the pledge‑it platform, Dean’s kicks translated into $20,266 raised — a significant increase that reflected the growing impact of the campaign and the generosity of the community.
Every point scored that season became a tangible way to offer hope, resources, and encouragement to those facing their own health battles. Dean’s commitment both on and off the field embodied the true spirit of service — showing that leadership in sport can lead to profound change in people’s lives.
Valley GMC Article: https://www.valleygmc.com/kicking-cancer-with-valley-gmc/?srsltid=AfmBOop1A0URb9dZ6s-KKDm49n3lZUTNyGnKny30Hy_JGNmqLQXv7f0H
2023: The First Step — More Than a Kick Begins
In 2023, Dean Janikowski turned his passion for football into something truly meaningful by launching the “More Than a Kick” pledge‑it campaign for the Heather Janikowski Foundation. Inspired by his mother Heather’s brave battle with cancer, Dean wanted to use his role as a Washington State University kicker to make a real difference for families fighting cancer in the Pullman and Spokane communities.
The idea was simple — supporters could pledge a donation for every field goal and extra point Dean made throughout the season. What began as a personal mission to honor his mother’s legacy quickly became a powerful movement of compassion.
By season’s end, More Than a Kick helped raise approximately $17,762 through community pledges, bringing much‑needed support directly to local individuals and families affected by cancer. It was a heartfelt tribute to Heather and a reminder that sport can be a platform for hope
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