We hear the question a lot – “how do you fund your programs?”
To many people’s surprise, HEROS doesn’t receive government support. As a registered charity, we rely on the kindness and generosity of our community to ensure we have the tools to support HEROS players – both on and off the ice.
Our partners across the country play no small part in this. Whether nationally or locally, HEROS has an amazing network of support thanks to them. That’s why it’s so important for us to thank them every chance we get, and why you’ll see their logos on HEROS jerseys across the country. Our partners are an important part of the HEROS team – but they can’t do it alone.
Each year, more than 15% of HEROS’ budget relies on grassroots donors. These donors are ordinary people who are simply looking to give back in their own way, supporting HEROS by contributing to community-led initiatives, employee giving programs, or by becoming monthly donors.
This crucial support from our grassroots donors helps create opportunities like launching additional programs, sending players on field trips, and providing post-secondary support for our HEROS alumni.
Last season alone, grassroots contributions helped HEROS provide over $75,000 in scholarships, bursaries, and personal development opportunities for players, giving them the chance to grow not only as hockey players, but as students and community leaders.
Jacqueline is one of those generous people who decided being a monthly donor is the easiest and most effective way for her to support her local HEROS program.
“Growing up in a sports family, we were always at a rink or a field. It’s where my brother and I learned the value of hard work, and what it means to be part of something greater than yourself,” said 
Jacqueline.
“That’s why I believe in what HEROS is doing. They don’t just throw kids on the ice. They’re mentoring them and giving them a chance to be part of a team.”
Jacqueline works a typical nine-to-five without much flexibility in her hours which means getting to the rink for an after-school program is nearly impossible for her.
“I don’t skate all that well, but I’d love to be at the arena with the kids. I helped at the HEROS fundraiser [Hockey in the Roundhouse] a few years ago, but other than that, my schedule just doesn’t let me leave work early enough to actually volunteer.”
But once Jacqueline found out about the opportunity to donate monthly, she immediately signed up online, finding a way to support HEROS that works best for her.
“It’s only a drop in the bucket, but if it sharpens a pair of skates or buys some snacks for the kids each month, I’m happy to help,” explained Jacqueline.
To HEROS, that “drop in the bucket” isn’t just a skate sharpening. It’s one more person believing in the work that goes on every week. One more person believing in the kids on the ice. One more person who understands that it’s bigger than hockey.
HEROS is so grateful for all of our grassroots donors like Jacqueline, who have found their unique way of supporting HEROS players in their community.
Want to join Jacqueline, and the hundreds of other grassroots donors supporting HEROS across the country? Click here to sign up for monthly donations today!