Hockey Education Reaching Out Society

Hockey Education Reaching Out Society (HEROS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering marginalized youth through hockey and life skills education. Established with the goal of providing free hockey programming to at-risk children and youth, HEROS creates a safe and stable environment where participants from grade four through post-secondary can grow, connect, and succeed.

Overview

HEROS is a volunteer-driven charity that has impacted over 18,000 children across Canada since its founding. The organization operates 28 hockey programs in nine Canadian cities, including Victoria, Vancouver, Surrey, Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, Winnipeg, Toronto, and Ottawa, with plans to expand into Montreal and Saskatoon. It also runs international initiatives, such as an annual hockey camp in Northern Ireland.

Programs and Impact

HEROS programs focus on more than just hockey skills; they emphasize life skills development, social inclusion, and community support. The organization's inclusive approach welcomes youth from diverse backgrounds, aiming to foster resilience, teamwork, and personal growth through sport.

Leadership and Team

The organization was founded by Norm Flynn, a former WHL and university hockey player, who envisioned using hockey as a positive force in the community. Flynn serves as the President and is recognized for his dedication to the well-being and future success of every HEROS player.

Kevin Hodgson, the Executive Director since 2006, brings experience in social services and the hockey industry. He plays a central role in the operational management of HEROS, overseeing everything from equipment logistics to volunteer coordination.

The Board of Directors includes co-founders Barb Aidelbaum and Casey McCawley. Aidelbaum has over 30 years of coaching experience in figure skating and hockey internationally, contributing significantly to program development. McCawley's expertise in strategic planning and management has been instrumental in the growth and sustainability of the organization.

Organizational Philosophy

HEROS is committed to providing accessible opportunities for youth who might not otherwise have the chance to participate in organized sport. By combining athletic development with mentorship and life skills training, HEROS works to break down barriers and create pathways toward personal and academic success.

This article reflects information current as of 2023 and is based on materials provided by Hockey Education Reaching Out Society.

[1] https://heroshockey.com [2] https://heroshockey.com/about/ [3] https://heroshockey.com/our-team/ [4] https://heroshockey.com/wp2021/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/HEROS-2022-Annual-Report.pdf [5] https://heroshockey.com/contact/