For 95-year-old Earl Ward, a lifelong Indiana Hoosiers basketball fan and World War II veteran, stepping foot inside Assembly Hall had always been more than just a dream — it was the one item left on his bucket list. Thanks to the StoryPoint Fort Wayne North community and their Dream Big initiative, that dream recently came true in a way that exceeded his wildest expectations.
Earl’s journey to Assembly Hall was decades in the making. Raised on a Michigan farm and drafted into the Navy at just 17, he served his country with pride before returning home and eventually settling in Indiana. It was during the Bobby Knight era that Earl first fell in love with IU basketball — a love that never faded.
Since joining StoryPoint Fort Wayne North as a founding resident, Earl made it clear to employees and friends alike that there was one thing he still hoped to do: see an IU basketball game live at Assembly Hall. “All he ever wanted to do was be there in person,” said his care team. “But he was starting to worry he was running out of time.”
That’s when the Dream Big team stepped in.
With the help of Indiana University, the StoryPoint Group team coordinated a surprise that Earl would never forget. He was driven to Bloomington, escorted onto the court, and received a standing ovation from the crowd — his name and story echoing across Assembly Hall.
“Seeing Earl’s face light up as he walked into the stadium was unforgettable,” said a member of the Life Enrichment team. “The entire arena gave him a hero’s welcome. It was one of those moments that reminds you why this work matters.”
Earl’s IU pride has always run deep. He’s known for rallying other residents to watch the games with him — regardless of whether they’re Hoosiers, Boilermakers, or Notre Dame fans. On this night, though, there was no rivalry — just love and celebration.
After the game, Earl reflected on the experience: “If you don’t have a dream, you can’t make it come true,” he said. “So start dreaming.”
Live Out Your Dreams at StoryPoint Group Communities
Residents like Earl Ward are what make StoryPoint Group communities such meaningful places to live. Whether it’s a lifelong sports dream, a creative passion, or a quiet personal goal, our Life Enrichment Directors are here to help every resident dream big — and live even bigger.
To learn more or schedule a tour, visit your nearest StoryPoint community or call 1-844-275-9990.
