Pond Hockey supports the Lloydminster Community

From the start of the hockey season in November through Mid-December the Lloydminster Pond Hockey group players became involved in community support activities by giving back to various local charitable organizations. Players in the Bantam- Midget age group signed up to volunteer to a few organizations that Chris Eskelson the director of the program set up to help support these groups. In all the Pond Hockey players helped on 5 different evenings towards local groups such as the Olive Tree, Moms group, and the Interval Store.

Each group of kids spent one evening with their chosen organization to learn about what that charity does for the community, meet and interact with the other volunteers and people in the community that these great organizations help support throughout the year.

“I thought this would be a great way for these players who are becoming young adults to give back to the community that they live in, develop an appreciation for what other familes go through, and the available support that these types of groups offer. Also, what a great way to team build with their fellow players in the Pond Hockey program. My family and I have always believed in what these organizations stand for and if we could help share that experience through volunteering with our Pond Hockey players, then that would be great.”

“At first some of the players were hesitant to sign up and asked many questions about what the different organizations were and what exactly they would be doing. After some explaining what each organization does for the community, most kids were on board right away. After the first couple of volunteer nights, it was amazing to see how many kids signed up again for another activity! They found it to not only be a rewarding experience to give back to the organization, but also a lot of fun to volunteer alongside with their team mates and meet new people.” Eskelson said. The Pond Hockey players participated in a variety of activities which included preparing & serving food at the community supper evening for the Olive Tree at the Fred North building, as well as at the MOM’s group at Southridge Community Church. After supper, the Pond Hockey players helped build crafts with the kids and entertained them with a variety of fun activities in the gym while the moms received guidance services.

At the Interval Store, the Pond Hockey players learned about what the store does and why it is in place to help support the Interval Home. The players during those evenings helped sort through the donated items, hang clothes, sort Christmas items for sale, separated toys, books, and other items that would either be put for sale in the store or set aside for the Interval Home for clients that are starting on their own.

I was so extremely proud of all the Pond Hockey players that took part in this opportunity and I’m looking forward to doing more activities such as these in the New Year. In total, more than 100 hours of time was volunteered which has a tremendous positive impact for these organizations. It is so important to give back in the communities that we live in; that’s what makes a community like ours so great. Willingness to step up and take part of something bigger than ourselves.

Chris Eskelson Pond Hockey & Intro director Lloydminster Minor Hockey

For more information about the charities mentioned in this story or looking for an opportunity to serve please visit the websites below. https://www.theolivetreelloyd.ca/ http://www.intervalhome.org/cms/index.php/for-the-interval-store/