Gorter Charities
What do your KGM donations support?
The AHAI Diversity Hockey Program introduces hockey to children of diverse or economically disadvantaged backgrounds. These are children who normally may not be afforded the opportunity to experience hockey. Currently 70 players are enrolled.
Through hockey, this program strives to develop their life skills, such as self-esteem, team work, responsibility all in a fun-filled, disciplined environment. The goal is to help the children learn to play and understand hockey.
Given a chance these children have proven to develop the same passion for the sport as children who grow up with the luxury of playing hockey on a regular basis. Their self-esteem blossoms, their enthusiasm for the game grows and their leadership qualities develop both off and on the ice. Hockey is a sport which, given the right circumstances, can enrich the lives of these children. The children are provided with the essential tools to be hockey players, ice time and used hockey equipment. For further information email Jay Cohen.
The TomaHawks Special Needs Hockey program introduces hockey to children with special needs, particularly Down Syndrome and Autism. There are currently three teams in the Chicago area comprised of 80 children. Each team is supported by cheerleaders who have the same special needs.
The programs allow for the challenges and joys of hockey to be experienced by children who otherwise would have no opportunity to play the game; this is done in a safe, closely monitored and supportive environment. Each TomaHawk hockey player also benefits from being on a team, participating in school functions, wearing their jerseys to school ... giving them a feeling of accomplishment and belonging.
Our donations support funding for ice time, equipment and stipends for volunteer coaches; the teams need one coach for every 2-3 players. For more information email Amy LaPoe.
Thank you letter from the TomaHawks
Thank you letter from AHAI Diversity Hockey