Thanks to a generous donation from Jumpstart, more kids can play.

A donation of $9,000 was specifically earmarked for the Outdoor Hockey League (OHL). On February 24^th, Jumpstart regional manager Glenn Maclean, along with representatives from local SportChek and Canadian Tire stores, visited the Ehrlo Sport Venture Library for an official cheque presentation.

“At Sport Venture, we rely on community donations, as well as grants. Having donations like this will really help to sustain and enhance our programs,” said Sport Venture manager Gloria Patrick.

The OHL is Sport Venture’s most popular league. This year has 320 youth enrolled.

“Most of our participants are families and kids who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to participate in organized sports. Especially hockey – hockey is a very expensive sport and financial barriers could impact some families. Our program works to remove those barriers, to provide opportunities that enable access for everyone.”

Like all of Sport Venture’s leagues, the OHL is free of charge and all equipment is provided for participants.

“It means a lot to us to be able to support such an important program,” said Glenn.

“We’ve been working with Sport Venture for about five years now. We started off with the flag football program and it kind of evolved further and further out because you’re working with the same demographic that we’re trying to reach as well, so it’s a great fit. You have great coaches and volunteers working with your program, and a number of kids participating in all of those leagues.”

“The programs have evolved a lot the past few years, partially because of this partnership,” added Ranch Ehrlo board member Marlys Tafflemeyer. “We can do so much more for communities, families, and kids.”