A few months ago, we wrote a blog covering the start of Norm Gallant’s Hockey Heroes journey.
Hockey Heroes is an event hosted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Teams of 15 are registered online with the goal of reaching $16,000, or $1,000 per player. During the tournament, teams have the chance to play alongside NHL alumni. The funds raised by players go directly towards supporting research and programs that address heart disease and stroke.
Last weekend was the big event and we reconnected with Norm to hear about his experience.
Norm, with the help of Maplewave’s Charity Committee, was able to raise a total of $4,540 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation – almost $2,000 more than last year.
“I know the money raised supports research and programs for heart disease and stroke.” Norm explained when asked about his source of motivation for fundraising over the required $1,000 to participate in the tournament.
When Norm started his fundraising journey, he joined forces with Maplewave’s Charity Committee. By hosting a number of lunches, 50/50 draws, and bake sales, Norm landed a spot as one of the Top 10 fundraisers for the Hockey Heroes Weekend.
“It wasn’t easy, it took a lot of time and effort. Everyone from work and my friends and family gave me a lot of support,” said Norm. “Before, during, and afterwards I received a lot of encouragement and positive feedback.”
For others embarking on a fundraising journey, Norm has a few suggestions to help you get started:
1. Plan
Plan out your fundraising activities to ensure they don’t fall too close together and give yourself plenty of time.
2. Research
Talk to friends and colleagues about what you plan to do and ask for their feedback, reach out to people who have fundraised before, and read up!
3. Use Social Media
Ask friends to share your campaign on social media. This can significantly expand your reach and create awareness about the cause you are supporting.
This was Norm’s fifth year participating in the Hockey Heroes Weekend, but this year was extra special – as he was team captain and selected to take the ceremonial puck drop.
Members of the Charity Committee also spent the weekend at the rink, volunteering for the event.
“It was a fun event and it was really great to meet the players and the other volunteers. We are all touched in some way by heart disease and stroke, the weekend really showed that,” Charity Committee member, Sandra Pitts exclaimed.
Looking forward, Norm will be joining the Charity Committee as they volunteer at other events throughout the year!
Learn more about the Heart and Stroke Foundation here: https://www.heartandstroke.ca/
