As published Feb. 24
J.W. Schnarr
LETHBRIDGE HERALD
Some local hockey players were serving up meals for a good cause in a way that gives all new meaning to the term “saucer pass.”
On Monday night, members of the Lethbridge Hurricanes took part in the annual Tip a Cane fundraiser at Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse in support of the United Way of Lethbridge and South Western Alberta.
‘Canes players served up drinks, appetizers and dinner as part of the staff for the event, with all tips then going to the United Way.
Connolly Tate, marketing and communications co-ordinator for the United Way of Lethbridge and South Western Alberta, said the Lethbridge Hurricanes are big supporters of local community groups and events.
“The Hurricanes in particular are a fantastic community partner,” she said. “They are always out and about doing something in the community.
“They are a high-profile group, and they have the power to influence people to make changes.”
She said the night went well with a large crowd coming out in support of the evening and to get a chance to be served by their favourite Hurricanes players.
“It went really well,” Tate said. “It was a full house for most of the evening, and at a few points there was even a 15-20-minute wait for a table. It was very well attended.”
Money raised goes toward the United Way Community Fund, which is how the organization distributes grant money to the community. Last year, more than 20 organizations in the Lethbridge region benefitted from United Way funding. This includes programs for children and families, poverty relief and people with disabilities.
“Those programs are really important to the community, so the support of the Hurricanes is really important to us,” said Tate.
Tate said about one in five people in the Lethbridge community make use of United Way-sponsored programs. Last year, the group served more than 27,000 people.
“Odds are you are one of them, or you know one of them,” she said. “So we want to encourage everybody to give back to the community they live in.”
The United Way of Lethbridge and South Western Alberta is one of more than 100 locally operating United Ways across Canada, with a goal of improving the lives of Canadians through local action in the community.
Last year, the event raised $503.75 in two hours. This year, the ‘Canes tips totaled $643.50.