Last week, the Ottawa Senators Community Foundation received a substantial and heartfelt donation from Graeme Roustan: 1000 hockey sticks. This act of generosity aimed to support youth in underserved communities, providing them with the equipment needed to participate in the beloved sport of hockey. The foundation, known for its commitment to empowering young people through sports, decided to distribute these sticks to two esteemed charities: Their Opportunity and Tim Hortons Camps.
Their Opportunity, an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers for children through sports, was one of the recipients. Their mission resonates deeply with Roustan, who understands firsthand the transformative power of sports in shaping young lives. Similarly, Tim Hortons Camps, renowned for offering enriching camp experiences to children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, received a portion of the donation. These camps provide a nurturing environment where children can learn and grow, fostering essential life skills in a supportive setting.
Graeme Roustan, notable as the owner of Canada’s sole hockey stick factory and publisher of The Hockey News, has a personal connection to the sport that drove his decision to make this donation. His upbringing instilled in him a profound sense of community responsibility, a lesson he learned from his mother, Ivy Draper. Reflecting on her influence, Roustan attributed the inspiration behind his charitable gesture to her. “My mother, Ivy Draper, lived in Carleton Place for thirty-five years up until her passing in 2022,” Roustan shared. “She taught me everything I know about giving back to the community, so all the thanks and credit must go to Mom.”
This donation is more than just a collection of hockey sticks; it represents an opportunity for 1000 children to engage in a sport they might not otherwise have access to. For Roustan, ensuring that young people have the tools to participate in hockey is a way of honoring his mother’s legacy and supporting the communities that shaped his own upbringing.
The Ottawa Senators Community Foundation expressed gratitude for Roustan’s contribution, emphasizing its alignment with their mission to empower youth from underserved communities to achieve their full potential. In a statement acknowledging the donation, the foundation underscored the importance of partnerships with organizations like Tim Hortons Camps and Their Opportunity in fostering resilience, strength, and social skills among young people. They highlighted their commitment to promoting wellness through sports and activities, underscoring the significance of Roustan’s gift in furthering this mission.
In conclusion, Graeme Roustan’s donation of 1000 hockey sticks stands as a testament to the enduring impact of community support and the transformative power of sports. Through his generosity, countless children will now have the opportunity to experience the joy of hockey, gaining not only skills on the ice but also invaluable life lessons that will shape their futures. His act of kindness reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the chance to thrive through the camaraderie and discipline that sports like hockey provide.
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