How the Ottawa Senators Foundation is changing the game for youth
On Thursday, Feb. 27, the Ottawa Senators Foundation is hosting their annual telethon, a show dedicated to sharing stories about the children and youth benefiting from your support.
When fans think about the Ottawa Senators Foundation, a few things initially come to mind: the excitement surrounding the annual gala, the thrill of purchasing 50/50 tickets at Senators home games and the Foundation’s efforts in changing lives for the better.
With a focus on investing in social recreation, education and wellness programs, the Foundation is now reaching upwards of 60,000 children and youth per year. During the 2018-19 season alone, it provided over 500,000 hours of recreational programming to these recipients, who otherwise may have never had such an opportunity. The Foundation makes this possible thanks to a strong partnership with the community.
The Foundation has built 15 outdoor SENS RINKS (Recreational Investments in Neighbourhoods for Kids), with plans to build five more in the near future. It also teaches kids how to skate, as well as provides free equipment to youth hockey players to see them through their season.
But the impacts extend far beyond the ice. Every summer, the SENS Campership Program covers the cost of sending less-fortunate children and youth from 46 communities to camp. The Foundation also maintains the SENS Sport and Leadership League, Ottawa’s only no-fee, year-round competitive athletic league for Boys & Girls Club members. It features organized sports like ball hockey, basketball, soccer and baseball.
“We’re also helping youth with drug and alcohol addiction, and we’re investing in college scholarships for military family members with help from our corporate partners,” says Danielle Robinson, president and CEO, Ottawa Senators Foundation. “Those investments go beyond hockey and sports — they are simply the right thing to do to support our society and community.”
Chris Schwarz, conditioning coach for the Ottawa Senators, agrees. Since joining the team, he’s been heavily involved with the Foundation, assisting with programs entailing nutrition, children’s health and the importance of athleticism. He also inspires children and youth by sharing his career journey, reminding them that they can accomplish whatever they put their minds to in life.
“Our players are always commenting on how important they think these programs are,” says Schwarz. “They all grew up in a healthy lifestyle with supportive parents who helped them secure opportunities when they were young. Not all children are that fortunate.
“The future of any community or society is based on its youth, teachers and coaches, and parents say that they’ve seen a light turn on in their children after participating in a Sens Foundation program,” adds Schwarz.
Support the Ottawa Senators Foundation today by making a donation and by tuning in to the Ottawa Senators Foundation Telethon on Thursday, Feb. 27 beginning at 6:30 p.m. prior to the Senators game against the Vancouver Canucks on TSN 5.
To make a contribution, visit www.sensfoundation. com or call 1-844-8GOSENS (846-7367).