As we approach the holiday season and turn the page on the hockey calendar, we see generosity all around us.
Not just our preparations for the giving of presents, but the gift of hockey that parents, coaches, officials and volunteers give to hundreds of thousands of young people across America every year.
The USA Hockey Foundation, the fundraising and philanthropic arm of USA Hockey, is in the business of giving support to our great game. Grants that generally exceed $500,000 are made annually to USA Hockey affiliates, programs and local initiatives across the United States. These grants fall into any of six categories: participation, player development, opportunity, education, safety and commemoration.
For example, the foundation has supported programs for non-traditional constituencies, the disadvantaged and disabled for almost 20 years. Sled hockey programs have benefited from funds to purchase sleds – the most costly piece of equipment in our game.
The USA Hockey Foundation continues to fuel the dreams of hockey players of all ages and aspirations.
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The USA Warriors program benefits and provides a therapeutic and recreational experience to wounded veterans in both sled and standing amputee hockey.
The foundation provides funding in partnership with the NHL through the Hockey is for Everyone (HIFE) initiative, helping programs like Ice Hockey in Harlem and the Fort Dupont Ice Hockey Club outside of Washington, DC.
The OneGoal organization, of which USA Hockey is a founding partner, receives funds to purchase low-cost equipment starter sets so that first-time players can try the game without having to make the sizable investment. Since its inception, OneGoal has provided more than 28,000 sets of gear for use by young players.
Foundation grants have supported safety studies and educational materials, like the Heads Up Hockey! posters displayed at rinks throughout the country. The 34 USA Hockey Affiliate Associations see funding – more than $200,000 each year, (which is matched by USA Hockey, Inc.) – returned to the local level to support the game and help control
costs through the Affiliate Block Grant program.
As you can see, there’s a lot to like about USA Hockey and The USA Hockey Foundation.
During this holiday season, as you head out to the rink to play or volunteer or cheer, remember that you are a vital part of USA Hockey and our great game.