Hockey refs change sports to help kids

NEWS RELEASE

CHILD FIND ONTARIO

************************* Referees raise over $1,500 for local chapter of child find Ontario

On Friday, Dec. 1, 2006, the Sault Hockey Officials Association sponsored and ran a bowling fun night event at Northcrest Lanes in support of the local chapter of Child Find Ontario.

The turnout was fantastic as over 100 people enjoyed galactic bowling, pizza, music and a number of raffle prizes.

The three-hour event went better than planned and both parties were pleased with the outcome.

Said Sault Hockey Officials Association President Lucas Bedell, “It was a great way for our guys to get out into the community and show that we are community-minded people, we’re here for the kids.

"We love the game of hockey.

"Putting the two organizations together to achieve one goal seemed obvious and we are glad to be able to do so well for Child Find.

"It was nice to see referees working with the volunteers towards a good cause.”

The event totaled a profit of over $1,500 directly headed towards the Sault Ste. Marie chapter of Child Find Ontario, a charity that advocates the education of children and parents on the dangers of strangers and running away.

The money raised goes towards materials and event costs throughout the year.

Child Find volunteers are often seen at child-oriented local events, recently this past year events such as the Dragon Boat Festival, Kidsfest at Bondar Pavilion and Rotaryfest.

“The event was a great success and all the participants had fun,"said local Child Find chapter co-chairperson Marc Baril.

"The atmosphere was great and the result was better.

"We really appreciate the support and the money will help us greatly in doing our job that our volunteers have so much passion for.”

The event was successful enough that plans are already in the making for next year.

The fundraiser also collected non-perishables for Christmas Cheer.

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