COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
2019.20
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OUR MISSION To be the champions of all youth in our community, on and off the ice, through the power of hockey.
OUR PILLARS Youth Hockey, Wellness, Education & Community.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABOUT
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COVID RELIEF
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YOUTH HOCKEY
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WELLNESS
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EDUCATION
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COMMUNITY
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SIGNATURE EVENTS
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PLAYER INITIATIVES
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QUICK HITS
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THANK YOU
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A LE T TER FROM MARIO LEMIEUX & RON BURKLE In Pittsburgh, when our city is faced with a challenge, we are there for our neighbors. We are stronger together. On and off the ice, our organization believes that greatness is expected. When we are facing difficult challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, our core values drive us to use the same energy and excellence that radiates throughout PPG Paints Arena on gamedays to not only make a difference, but make deep rooted and impactful change. We are continuously able to support our community because of the generosity of our teammates. Because of our players, we have been able to provide life changing assists to our littlest Penguins fans in need. These hockey heroes aided COVID-19 relief efforts with their support of organizations including the Boys & Girls Club, Ronald McDonald House and Allies for Children. Further, through player initiatives like Little Penguins, Hearts of Gold and Seats for Strength, thousands of kids in our city have met their idols and been inspired to work hard to achieve their dreams.
Because of our loyal season ticket holders, corporate partners and donors, we are able to fund critical initiatives plus expand our programs. Distributions of food and diapers occurred outside PPG Paints Arena during the pandemic, which gave a lift to our community at a pivotal time. This season, we also built our 6th COOL Zone igloo emphasizing our commitment to the mental wellness and behavioral health of our youth. These are just a few examples of the work done in the community during the 2019.20 season. Without the endless support we receive from our Penguins family, efforts like this would not be possible. Finally, because of you and your kindness, in just a decade, we have become a beacon of hope for those in need. We have provided helping hands, side-by-side with our neighbors, to make Pittsburgh an unbelievable place. Together, thanks to you, we are proud to champion the dreams and goals of our youth, making this the best city in the world to learn, grow and play hockey. We hope you enjoy learning more about our recent community efforts. Thank you for your unending support!
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Mario Lemieux Co-owner
Ron Burkle Co-owner
ABOUT THE
PI T T SBURGH PENGUINS F OUND AT ION
ABOUT US
THE MISSION OF THE PENGUINS FOUNDATION To be the champions of all youth in our community, on and off the ice, through the power of hockey.
THE PILLARS OF THE PENGUINS FOUNDATION The Penguins Foundation focuses its support in the following four areas: • YOUTH HOCKEY: We foster the growth, accessibility and sustainability of youth hockey in the tristate area with the goal of sharing the game we love. • WELLNESS: We support health, fitness and awareness initiatives that assist the overall physical and mental wellness of our youth. • EDUCATION: We provide opportunities for all children to have access to premier learning tools and initiatives to ensure excellence in education. • COMMUNITY: We impact our city and region through programming, investments and partnerships that create a strong community and secure future for children and families.
“We are committed to the community. It’s part of our mission statement. Stanley Cups, help the community. That’s basically it. David Morehouse
CEO & President Pittsburgh Penguins
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THE TEAM OF THE PENGUINS FOUNDATION
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dave Soltesz
President (Retired 2020)
CEO/President Pittsburgh Penguins
Jim Britt
Kevin Acklin
Executive Director
Amanda Susko
Sr. Director, Foundation Programs & Strategic Planning
Cindy Himes
Director, Community/Alumni Relations
Shannon Webster
Director, Youth Hockey
Abbey Braddock
Manager, Foundation Programs
Darya Snoznik
Program Coordinator
Molly Trunzo
Sr. Executive Assistant
David Morehouse
COO and General Counsel Pittsburgh Penguins
Kevin Hart
Senior Vice President, Finance Pittsburgh Penguins
Melissa Armstrong Pittsburgh Penguins
Edward Baiden
Director, Marketing & Product Management PPG
David Farner
Executive Vice President and Chief Strategic & Transformation Officer UPMC
Donald Heberle
Executive VP of Wealth Management PNC
Tommy Johnson
Vice President, External Relations & Corporate Responsibility CNX
David Malone
CEO Gateway Financial
Fran Muracca Partner Jones Day
Dan Onorato
Executive Vice President, Highmark Health Highmark
Deborah Rice-Johnson
President of Highmark Health Plan Highmark
Kristin Wells Partner Reed Smith
Angela Wheland
VP, Communications FedEx Ground
Sy Holzer
Former President PNC Financial Services Group
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ABOUT US
T HE F OUND AT ION’ S 1 0 TH A N N I V E R S A R Y S E A S O N The 2019.20 season marked the 10th anniversary for the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation. Established in 2010, the Penguins Foundation has been assisting our community’s youth for a decade, and throughout 2019.20, the many milestones and accomplishments of the Foundation were celebrated. The Penguins organization recognized the charitable efforts of the Foundation during the game on October 10, kicking off the season long celebration. That evening, children from various charities were incorporated into the gameday itself with each child receiving a special experience – including the Jr. Starter, High Five, Selfie, Zamboni Rides and Puck Pals. In addition, all youth attending the game received a Sidney Crosby growth chart courtesy of the Penguins Foundation. Throughout the season, the Penguins Foundation asked fans if they have “More to Give” because the Foundation knows that there is still “More to Do” for the Pittsburgh community and our littlest fans.
“It was just an idea in the summer of 2010. Since then, with the support of Penguins players, our staff and our tremendous fans, we’ve been able to put smiles on the faces of so many children.” Dave Soltesz President (Retired 2020) Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation
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COVID RELIEF
COVID RELIEF
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COVID RELIEF
ONE TEAM In mid-March, the 2019.20 NHL season was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the Pittsburgh community, our neighbors felt the extreme effects of the pandemic and many struggled to find support. During this critical time, the Penguins players and their families opted to make the following incredible assists. Sidney Crosby: On May 4, Sidney Crosby donated 100,000 meals to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. The meals equated to 120,000 pounds of food distributed across the organization’s 11-county service area in Pennsylvania. Evgeni Malkin: Through a generous donation from Evgeni Malkin and his wife, Anna, Ronald McDonald House of Pittsburgh was able to receive its entire Wish List for pantry products in addition to warm meals, fun games and special Penguins gifts for the families staying with RMH. Jake Guentzel: The Milk Shake Factory and Jake Guentzel teamed up on May 6 to thank local nurses on National Nurses Day. A delivery of 59 Penguins chocolates from #59 and The Milk Shake Factory surprised the nurses working at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital and UPMC Passavant. Jared McCann: Jared McCann, along with his mother Erin, who has been living with multiple sclerosis for 40 years, hosted a virtual happy hour to raise money for Walk MS and the National MS Society. Matt Murray: In April, Matt Murray partnered with Primanti Bros. to open a $5,000 tab for police officers in Pittsburgh. Kris Letang: On May 8, Kris Letang and his wife Catherine made monetary donations to provide meals to the Students and Families Food Relief Fund and the Knead Community Café, enabling both organizations to support families and children in need. Bryan Rust, Zach Aston-Reese & Marcus Pettersson: Bryan Rust, Zach Aston-Reese and Marcus Pettersson purchased 500 personal pizzas from Fox’s Pizza Den which were then distributed to children and families in the Hill District and the North Side. Teddy Blueger, Tristan Jarry, Sam Lafferty & John Marino: Teddy Blueger, Tristan Jarry, Sam Lafferty and John Marino teamed up with Fox’s Pizza Den to donate 1,000 personal pizzas to five community centers, which included Northview Heights Housing, the Boys & Girls Club of Western Pennsylvania, the Turtle Creek Ambulance Station, the Tarentum Marina and White Lily Baptist Church.
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Mike Sullivan: On May 5, Mike Sullivan surprised shoppers with free groceries at The Waterfront Giant Eagle and South Hills Market District during designated senior hours. Local senior shoppers were told after gathering their essentials that no payment was necessary at checkout because all costs were paid in advance by Sullivan and his wife Kate. In addition, Mike Sullivan delivered a virtual commencement speech to the class of 2020 to hopefully bring a smile to graduating seniors. Lady Pens: From funds raised through auctions and cookbook sales, the Lady Pens donated $59,000 to support six local non-profit organizations: Christopher’s Kitchen, Blessings in a Backpack, Beverly’s Birthdays, the National Aviary, Pennies from Heaven and Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh Penguins: Through a specialty St. Patrick’s Day auction of player jerseys and autographed pucks, $20,000 was donated to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank, Rainbow Kitchen and the Salvation Army’s carry-out meal program thanks to all members of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
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TOGETHER APART From monetary support to providing food and supplies needed by our community members, the Penguins organization was eager to lend a helping hand to those in need during the pandemic. A special thank you to our fan base and volunteers who joined us in these efforts. Donation to the University of Pittsburgh: The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation donated $100,000 from funds raised through the gameday 50/50 Raffle to the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Vaccine Research (CVR). This donation supported the combined efforts of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates and Pitt Athletics to find a vaccine for the virus that causes COVID-19. In total, $800,000 was contributed to Pitt’s CVR. Donation to UPMC & Highmark Health: Pittsburgh Penguins co-owners Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle each personally donated $100,000 to assist UPMC and Highmark Health as they continue battling the COVID-19 pandemic. The generous contributions aided the UPMC Children’s Hospital Helpers Fund and the purchase of another mobile COVID-19 testing unit.
Distributions of Food: Throughout the pandemic, the Penguins organization conducted food distributions at PPG Paints Arena in partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Donation to 412 Food Rescue: The Pittsburgh Penguins and Aramark donated 2,000 lbs. of perishable food to 412 Food Rescue for distribution to local organizations and neighbors in need. Donation of Laptops: The Pittsburgh Penguins and Duolingo donated 35 laptop computers to Circles Greater Pittsburgh for distribution to families in our community whose children would not otherwise have access to online learning during school closures due to the pandemic.
Donation of Backpacks: The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation donated 500 backpacks filled with school supplies to students in Allegheny and Somerset Counties who do not have the educational resources necessary to learn from home. Through this donation, 200 backpacks were distributed by Pennsylvania State Police barracks in both Allegheny and Somerset Counties to local families in need and 100 backpacks were distributed by ACH Clear Pathways, a Hill District organization that supports underserved families through after-school programs. In addition, 1,000 stuffed backpacks were distributed to students attending Pittsburgh Public Schools in partnership with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates. Distribution of Diapers: The Penguins organization teamed up with Global Links and the Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank to host a free, drive-up diaper distribution event outside PPG Paints Arena on June 25, which distributed 142,000 diapers to those in need.
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Support for PPG Paints Arena Workers: The Pittsburgh Penguins organization, Penguins team, Penguins Foundation and Mario Lemieux Foundation came together to ensure that full and part-time arena and service employees at PPG Paints Arena did not lose pay due to the season pause in the spring. In addition, Giant Eagle offered temporary employment to those whose jobs were affected by the community impact of COVID-19. Support for Essential Workers: Dunkin and the Pittsburgh Penguins partnered to provide donuts to Philips employees and FedEx Ground staff and service provider drivers - two essential groups working hard to assist our community during the pandemic. In addition, Keurig Dr Pepper donated product to area medical staff with the support of the Penguins organization. Support for Season Ticket Holders: Pittsburgh Penguins season ticket holders received a pair of Penguins masks plus hand sanitizer thanks to Highmark. Further, the Penguins players sent hand-written thank you notes and made phone calls to randomly-selected season ticket holders to brighten their days during the pandemic.
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YOUTH HOCKEY We foster the growth, accessibility and sustainability of youth hockey in the tristate area with the goal of sharing the game we love.
YOUTH HOCKEY
SID & THE KIDS LIT TLE PENGUINS LEARN TO PL AY HOCKEY Sidney Crosby’s Little Penguins is an introductory learn to play program for youth ages 5 to 9. The program aims to inspire children to join the sport. Little Penguins provides first-time participants free head-to-toe equipment, on-ice instruction and certified coaching in a fun and safe atmosphere. Little Penguins is presented by the NHL and NHLPA with the support of Crosby, the Penguins Foundation, DICK’S Sporting Goods, CCM and USA Hockey.
“The kids had great energy, and I have some great memories as a kid being at hockey camp and having good experiences that way. So just to be out here and see the smiles and the energy that they bring, that’s what it’s all about.” Sidney Crosby Pittsburgh Penguins
100 Little Penguins participants were surprised with a Golden Ticket to skate on the ice with the Pittsburgh Penguins!
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“This is definitely the north star. The Golden Ticket skate is probably one of the premier events that we see around the league. Having Sidney Crosby and the team be a part of this event is even more special. Any time you can get an interaction with a current player, it’s going to create a love for the game.” Matt Herr Senior Director of Youth Hockey & Industry Growth NHL
Since 2008, Sidney Crosby’s Little Penguins program has given over 13,000 children an introduction to hockey!
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YOUTH HOCKEY
ON DEK PROJEC T POWER PL AY Starting in 2012, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and Highmark partnered to build 12 dek hockey rinks through Project Power Play. The initial phase included a budget of $2.3 million over a four-year period with added support from the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County and the surrounding communities. The next phase of Project Power Play is now underway with 3 additional deks built in 2018 and 2019.
15 Project Power Play dek hockey rinks are located within Pennsylvania and Ohio! Efforts to grow hockey ‘on dek’ have led to the creation of the Learn to Play Dek Hockey program. Similar to Little Penguins on-ice, this program equips 1,000 kids, ages 4-9, with free dek hockey equipment as part of a 6-8 week instructional series.
15 DEK Hockey Rinks! 2012 – 2 rinks • Banksville Park Banksville • Lewis Park Hazelwood 2013 – 4 rinks • Brookline Memorial Park Brookline • Hosanna House Sherwood Event Center Wilkinsburg • Riverside Park Oakmont • Richland Community Park Wexford 2014 – 4 rinks • Renzie Park McKeesport • Settler’s Cabin Oakdale • North Park Allison Park • Graham Park Cranberry Township 2015 – 2 rinks • Paul J. Scullio II Memorial Park Bloomfield • South Park South Park 2018 – 2 rinks • South Park South Park (Ice Rink Conversion) • Mill Creek Park Youngstown, OH 2019 – 1 rink • Bellevue Memorial Park Bellevue
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Over 180,000 children have been exposed to hockey through PensFIT!
PL AY L IKE A PENGUIN PENSFIT PensFIT is designed to introduce children to the sport of hockey and facilitate an increase in physical activity by supplying schools and community centers with complete sets of floor hockey equipment including sticks, hockey balls, goals, goalie equipment and more. Since the launch of PensFIT in 2012, the Penguins Foundation has provided free floor hockey equipment to more than 650 schools and community centers in 10 different counties.
GIVE HOCKEY A SHOT Created during the 2016.17 season, Give Hockey a Shot was designed for young athletes, ages 6-12, to play this great game regardless of income. Give Hockey a Shot allows rinks in the Pittsburgh region to borrow one of three fully stocked equipment trailers for up to 30 days with each trailer housing 40 sets of youth hockey equipment.
TRY HOCKEY FOR FREE Launched in 2017.18, Try Hockey for Free donated 50 sets of youth hockey equipment to 25 rinks in Western Pennsylvania. This donation has allowed the selected rinks to host multiple Try Hockey for Free events - ultimately introducing youngsters ages 4-8 to the sport.
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YOUTH HOCKEY
ALL FOR ONE HOCKEY STICKS TOGE THER The Pittsburgh Penguins organization and the Penguins Foundation supported the formation of the Hockey Sticks Together Foundation to oversee programs that embody the NHL’s “Hockey is for Everyone” initiative. Each season, the Penguins Foundation provides a monetary contribution to Hockey Sticks Together to share hockey with those who are disabled or underserved. In 2019.20, the Penguins Foundation supported Hockey Sticks Together with a $155,000 total grant to assist these organizations: Beaver County Ice Sharks Special Hockey Happy Valley Sled Hockey Happy Valley Special Hockey Johnstown Sitting Bulls Sled Hockey Mighty Penguins Sled Hockey Pittsburgh Emperors Special Hockey Pittsburgh Inclusion Creates Equality Pittsburgh Rhinos Blind Hockey Pittsburgh Warriors Steel City Icebergs Special Hockey Southpointe Grizzlies Special Hockey
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The Hockey Sticks Together Foundation’s mission is to embrace individuals with disabilities and support the inclusion of athletes of all genders, age, ethnicity, ability, race, sexual orientation and socio-economic status in all aspects of hockey while driving positive social change.
THE NEXT LEVEL PIT TSBURGH PENGUINS ELITE A joint effort of the Pittsburgh Penguins and DICK’S Sporting Goods, Penguins Elite offers a comprehensive program for player development that includes the region’s premier coaching staff, professional management, world-class training facilities, academic guidance and more. The Penguins Elite program, Western Pennsylvania’s premier AAA amateur hockey organization, is the only program in the region that offers a full complement of teams for boys and girls at all age groups. The Penguins Foundation proudly supports Penguins Elite with an annual grant.
EXCEL HOCKEY ACADEMY In 2017.18, the Pittsburgh Penguins organization opened the doors to EXCEL Hockey Academy, a premier scholastic hockey academy in partnership with the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex and North Catholic High School. With financial support provided by the Penguins Foundation, EXCEL Hockey Academy offers students a unique combination of traditional classes with daily ice time and world-class hockey training. In addition to the high school level (grades 9-12), EXCEL Hockey Academy is open to middle school (grades 6-8) and grade school (grades 3-5) students as well on a modified basis.
“The Penguins involvement in youth hockey has been extensive over the last 10 years. We have some of the best coaches in the country and we definitely have some of the best training in the country at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex.” David Morehouse President & CEO Pittsburgh Penguins
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WELLNESS We support health, fitness and awareness initiatives that assist the overall physical and mental wellness of our youth.
WELLNESS
INSIDE THE IGLOO COOL ZONE With the support of the Penguins Foundation and EMBRACE Pittsburgh, the Children Overcoming Obstacles and Limits (COOL) Zone was developed in 2015 by the Matilda Theiss Early Childhood Behavioral Health Program, part of UPMC Western Behavioral Health. Shaped like an “igloo” to provide a safe space for children, the COOL Zone is a program for kids who exhibit symptoms of or who currently have a behavioral health diagnosis. This program increases accessibility to high quality mental health services by partnering with existing schools and community centers in Allegheny County. Within these child-friendly settings, the COOL Zone serves children experiencing a range of behavioral and emotional disruptions such as: aggression, anxiety, depression, withdrawal, family disruption, emotional difficulties, traumatic responses and more. Since 2015, the COOL Zone has assisted over 340 children in the Pittsburgh region.
COOL Zone Locations: Edgewood Primary School 241 Maple Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15218 Wilkins Primary School 362 Churchill Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15235 Twin Rivers Primary and Intermediate School 1600 Cornell St. McKeesport, PA 15132 Penn Hills Elementary School 1079 Jefferson Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15235 Hosanna House 807 Wallace Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15221 UPMC Children’s Pine Center 11279 Perry Hwy. Wexford, PA 15090
Did you know? Penguins players Bryan Rust & Nick Bjugstad welcomed children from the COOL Zone to each home game at PPG Paints Arena through their Seats for Strength program.
In January 2020, the Penguins Foundation opened the 6th COOL Zone location in Wexford, PA!
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GE T A HE AD S TAR T HEADS UP The Penguins Foundation and UPMC Sports Medicine teamed up in 2011 to create HEADS UP Pittsburgh to combat an epidemic of concussions in young athletes. The program aims each year to provide free, baseline testing to youth in our region, while sharing the latest training tools to aid in concussion reduction. To date, over 20,000 children have been tested in 31 sports with education awareness provided to over 50,000 parents, coaches, referees and teachers.
Through HEADS UP, 500+ young athletes are involved in concussion research!
Expansion of HEADS UP Pittsburgh: 2011 Introduction of HEADS UP Pittsburgh to Hockey Athletes (Ages 10-14) 2012 Expansion of HEADS UP Pittsburgh to Athletes in All Sports 2013 Free Neck-Strengthening Kits to First 4,000 Participants 2014 Free Flexibility Kits to First 2,000 Participants 2015 Introduction of Pediatric-Version (Ages 7-9) of HEADS UP Pittsburgh 2016 Free Balance Discs to First 3,000 Participants 2017 Free Pilates Balls to First 3,000 Participants 2018 Free Neck-Strengthening Kits to First 1,000 Participants (Ages 10-14) 2019 Free Wind Resistance Strength Builders to First 2,500 Participants (Ages 10-14) 2020 Free Neck-Strengthening Kits to First 2,000 Participants (Ages 10-14)
Thank You to UPMC for Supporting the COOL Zone & HEADS UP Programs! 29
WELLNESS
EMBR A CING MEN TAL WEL L NE S S BREAK THE ICE On January 5, the Penguins Foundation and EMBRACE Pittsburgh co-hosted the first-ever Break the Ice Night as part of the NHL’s Hockey Talks initiative, which is a mental health awareness campaign adopted by 15 teams across the league. The evening highlighted the efforts of EMBRACE Pittsburgh, a city-wide movement focused on championing mental strength throughout the region. Players called attention to the cause by wearing Hockey Talks helmet decals during the game and encouraging fans to “break the ice” by checking-in with family and friends to start the conversation about mental wellness. In addition, each fan that entered the building that evening received two #BreakTheIce “Embrace-let” sets, one for them and one to share with a friend in hopes of combating the stigma associated with mental health.
“We are really excited because EMBRACE Pittsburgh partnered with the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation to break the ice. What that means is to start a conversation on your mental well-being. This campaign, this movement is for everyone of us. Everyone of us can contribute and everyone of us can benefit from it.” Cindy Citrone Founder EMBRACE Pittsburgh & Citrone 33
For the first-time, the Penguins organization proudly embraced the NHL’s Hockey Talks campaign by hosting Break the Ice Night!
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THE PENS CARE CARE MOBILE
“UPMC Children’s is committed to providing world-class care… But, there are children who can’t make it to us. So, what the Care Mobile allows us to do – is make it to them.”
In October 2019, the Penguins Foundation unveiled a new Care Mobile in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities and UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. The 40-foot vehicle features a Penguins-themed distraction therapy treatment room and provides 17 different services and tests -- including wellness visits, immunizations, physicals, sick visits and more -- to children in low income areas in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Mark Sevco President UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
Did you know? Thanks to the tremendous support of Penguins fans, the Care Mobile was heavily funded by the Foundation’s Love Your Melon knit beanies with an overall contribution of $200,000 to the vehicle!
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WELLNESS
JUS T S AY NO H.O.P.E. The Penguins Foundation and EVERFI partnered to support the FBI Pittsburgh Division and Citizens Academy on the Heroin Outreach Prevention and Education (H.O.P.E.) Initiative in 2019.20. H.O.P.E. teaches students about the dangers of opioid abuse and provides an understanding of how abuse can be prevented. To put this knowledge into action, students were challenged to create a PSA for entry into a video contest with the Penguins Foundation providing a monetary donation and party suite tickets to the winning schools. In total, 54 schools entered the H.O.P.E. contest with the Foundation providing $18,000 to the winning schools.
Veteran Winners:
1st: South Fayette High School
2nd: Freeport Area High School
3rd: Pittsburgh Taylor Allderdice High School
Rookie Winners:
1st: Indiana County Tech Center
2nd: Central Cambria High School
3rd: Knoch High School
“The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation has done extraordinary work in the community to help educate our youth on the dangers of opioids. The H.O.P.E. program teaches students to think differently. The work students put into their videos allows them to teach and inform their peers… Through our partnership with the Penguins Foundation on this important program, we have the ability to reach more people and work together to stop this dangerous epidemic.” Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman FBI Pittsburgh
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The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation was honored with the FBI’s 2019 Director’s Community Leadership Award, nominated by the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office. This prestigious award acknowledges organizations who make a lasting impact within their communities.
PRESCRIP TION DRUG SAFE T Y In an effort to help address adolescent drug abuse and misuse in Pennsylvania, the Penguins Foundation, Rite Aid Foundation, EVERFI and Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro teamed up to bring the Prescription Drug Safety Network program, an innovative digital course about prescription drug abuse prevention, to over 4,500 students within 56 high schools at no cost. The series of six interactive modules educates students on opioids, depressants and stimulants and teaches the appropriate use for each drug, as well as intervention skills.
#MESSAGEFORHOPE The Penguins Foundation partnered with WQED, FBI Pittsburgh and Youth Express on a contest for students in grades 6-8 attending Pittsburgh Public Schools. Aimed to engage students on the struggles of drug addiction, the #messageforHOPE initiative allowed these students to use creative mediums to address the ongoing drug epidemic and ways to rely on positive outlets rather than drugs.
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EDUC AT ION
EDUC AT ION We provide opportunities for all children to have access to premier learning tools and initiatives to ensure excellence in education.
ED U C ATI O N
TEACHING THROUGH TECH FUTURE GOAL S HOCKEY SCHOL AR A league-wide initiative co-sponsored by the NHL and NHLPA, the Future Goals Hockey Scholar program helps students learn science, technology, engineering and math concepts that are present in hockey by using simulations on iPads and computers. Since 2014, Future Goals has yielded over 225,000 hours of STEM learning opportunities for students in our region.
To date, Future Goals Hockey Scholar has reached over 87,000 students in Western Pennsylvania!
“They saw how mass affects a hockey puck or how the angle of a collision affects the momentum of a puck. It was really cool for them to see those concepts in real life. A lot of them love sports to begin with, so to see how science and sports align was really exciting for them.� Megan Campedel 8th Grade Science Teacher & NHL Future Goals Most Valuable Teacher of the Month Avonworth Middle School
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STEAM LENDING LIBRARY With the assist of a $442,000 PAsmart Grant by Governor Tom Wolf, the Penguins Foundation expanded the STEAM Lending Library initiative to 22 counties across Western Pennsylvania to provide students with access to technological education to engage even more students with science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. This program has impacted over 400,000 students in grades K-12, which has allowed the Penguins Foundation to strengthen its educational pillar.
“Through the support of the Pens Foundation, IU1 has been able to expand the STEAM Lending Library to impact even more students in Fayette, Greene and Washington counties. Teachers and students now have more access to current and upcoming technology to explore and learn within their classroom. The Pens Foundation’s support of the IU1 STEAM Lending Library has directly impacted the learning of students in our region by giving them a jump start in their educational endeavors, as well as providing teachers with the tools to become innovative educational leaders. IU1 looks forward to continuing this exciting initiative with the Pens Foundation and seeing our students become the innovative leaders of the future.” Sarah Durzo Coordinator for Innovation and Design Intermediate Unit 1
RE THINK THE RINK For the third straight season, the Penguins, Covestro and Carnegie Mellon University’s College of Engineering united to “Rethink the Rink” – a unique effort to make the game of hockey safer at all levels. This season, Rethink the Rink challenged CMU students to focus on protective padding. A Make-A-Thon, held in March, brought students together to uncover material solutions that will provide players with a greater range of motion and flexibility without compromising protection.
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ED U C ATI O N
A+ MVPS
Recipients of the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation Scholarship included:
SCHOL ARSHIPS The Penguins organization supported the following annual scholarship awards during 2019.20: Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation Scholarship $1,500 (Year 1); $1,000 (Year 2) Awarded to high school seniors from Pittsburgh Public Schools and select schools within Allegheny County based on their academic achievement, community service and participation in school activities Recipients: 20 Students Bob Johnson Memorial Scholarship $5,000 Awarded to one Western Pennsylvania high school senior for academic excellence, community service and for providing leadership and sportsmanship as a member of their high school’s hockey team Recipient: Ritchy Froehlich - Montour High School; Allegheny College Penguins Alumni Association Scholarship $2,000 Awarded to one Western Pennsylvania high school senior who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, good citizenship, school and community involvement and has shown an intense love for the game of hockey. Recipient: Luke Turkovich - North Allegheny Senior High; Duke University
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Alexandra Arnold Pittsburgh CAPA; Temple University Anthony Barbarino Northgate; Norwich University Morgan Blanchflower Springdale; Grove City College Jaylin Brown Steel Valley; University of Pittsburgh @ Greensburg Marissa Callender Highlands; Allegheny College Evan DeWitt Allderdice; American University Rachel Halapchuk Springdale; John Carroll University Breanne Hurley Springdale; Gannon University Hannah Kern Springdale; Penn State University Ella Kornacki Steel Valley; University of Pittsburgh Katie Kozy Carlynton; St. Vincent College Paige Matey West Mifflin; Robert Morris University Bryn Sara Mermelstein Woodland Hills; Michigan State University Sophia Piatt Keystone Oaks; Gannon University Allison Resetar West Mifflin; Saint Francis University Kayla Segady McKeesport Area; Duquesne University Kristen Schrantz Penn Hills; Clarion University Haley Stabile Woodland Hills; Allegheny College Cortney Woytovich South Allegheny; Duquesne University Anna Yaksich Springdale; University of Pittsburgh
SUPERSTAR STUDENTS The Penguins Foundation was honored to recognize hardworking students throughout Allegheny County with a new program in 2019.20 entitled Superstar Students. This program rewarded students for the strides they made in school and the impact they made within their local community by gifting them with complimentary tickets to a Penguins game.
1,200 tickets were awarded to area high school students through Superstar Students in 2019.20!
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COMMUNITY We impact our city and region through programming, investments and partnerships that create a strong community and secure future for children and families.
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COMMUNITY
A GRE AT D AY F OR GIVING PENGUINS FOUNDATION GRANTS Funded by the gameday 50/50 Raffle presented by BETRIVERS.COM, the Penguins Foundation Grant program awarded grants to 19 organizations in 2019.20, totaling approximately $742,000, that embody and further the mission of the Penguins Foundation. • Allegheny Conference on Community Development Protective Mask Fund • Bailey’s Bottoms & Random Acts of Kindness • Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh • Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial • GOALS Foundation • Heitz 61 Memorial Foundation • Heroes Supporting Heroes • Hockey Sticks Together Foundation • March of Dimes, Inc. • Operation Troop Appreciation • Operation Warm • Pittsburgh Penguins Elite • Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust, Inc. • STAT Ligonier Therapeutic Center • Strong Women, Strong Girls • The Friendship Circle of Pittsburgh, Inc. • The Shoebox Project USA • University of Pittsburgh COVID-19 Vaccine Fund • Variety - the Children’s Charity
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“The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation was one of the earliest supporters of Variety – the Children’s Charity’s My Bike® Program for children with disabilities. Since 2012, their generous donations of more than $70,000 have provided over 40 children with disabilities the life-changing gift of an adaptive bike. The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation’s early support of the program has been a catalyst for other organizations to join Variety in ensuring that all kids are able to experience the feelings of joy and independence that come from riding a bike with family and friends.” Charles LaVallee Chief Executive Officer Variety – the Children’s Charity
“The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation has given children a gift of warmth, confidence and hope through your support of Operation Warm this past year. Your grant provided brand new winter coats to 450 children in need, delivered by the Pittsburgh Firefighters. Your gift has brought ‘more than a coat’ to children who need it. It has brought the confidence that comes with having something brand new, and the hope that comes from knowing that you care.” Grace Sica Executive Director Operation Warm
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COMMUNITY
OUR GAME HOCKEY IS FOR EVERYONE The NHL’s “Hockey is for Everyone” initiative uses the game of hockey to drive positive social change and foster more inclusive communities regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, disability, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status. In 2019.20, the Pittsburgh Penguins and Penguins Foundation proudly celebrated Hockey is for Everyone as follows throughout the season:
• Black Hockey History Day – 01.31.20 • Hockey Day in America – 02.16.20 • Her Hockey Day – 03.22.20 • Pride Day – 06.26.20
“As the NHL has said, hockey is for everyone. We just wanted to expose children in the African-American community to hockey. Exposure builds interest… We want to build momentum.” Tracey McCants-Lewis Deputy General Counsel and Director of HR Pittsburgh Penguins
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Black Hockey History Day – Black Hockey History Day was held in January as the
Hockey Day in America – The Penguins joined the NHL for the 13th annual Hockey
NHL’s American Legacy Black Hockey History Bus tour rolled into Pittsburgh, one day before the start of Black History Month. The Penguins hosted black hockey history events both within the community and tied into the gameday experience itself.
Week Across America in February. Hockey Day in America in Pittsburgh celebrated players of all ages and abilities plus those who simply love this great game.
Her Hockey Day – To support the NHL’s Gender Equality Month in March, the Penguins
Pride Day – On social media in June, the Penguins organization recognized our Pride community and their love for and inclusion in hockey during the league’s designated NHL Pride Day.
organization proudly celebrated girls and women in hockey on Her Hockey Day utilizing social media to thank our female fan base and tell their passionate stories.
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COMMUNITY
PRE-GAME ASSISTS GAMEDAY COLLEC TIONS During the season of giving, the Penguins Foundation hosted the following gameday collections to assist those in need within Western Pennsylvania:
• Shutout Hunger Night – 11.22.20 • Stuff-A-Bus Toy Drive – 12.04.20
Shutout Hunger Night – Shutout Hunger Night encouraged fans to make a monetary donation in support of the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank either at the designated Penguins game or online. The collection raised $3,750 to help aid families and individuals in our community who struggle with food insecurities.
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Stuff-A-Bus Toy Drive – Through a partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps, 96.1KISS, UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex and Enterprise Rent-A-Car, the Penguins Foundation hosted a toy drive for Toys for Tots with over $26,000 raised. Further, the Lady Pens collected enough toys to stuff an entire school bus, which then made its way to Mikey and Big Bob at the official Stuff-A-Bus drop-off location in Robinson.
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SIGNAT URE E VEN T S
SIGNAT URE E VEN T S
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S I G N ATU R E EV ENTS
SWINGING INTO THE SEASON SUMMER STICKS GOLF CL ASSIC On September 10, the Pittsburgh Penguins swung into the new hockey season during the Summer Sticks Golf Classic presented by UPMC. For the second straight season, the event was held at Topgolf where current Penguins players, alumni and coaches served as celebrity golfers in each bay. In total, $178,000 was raised, which funds scholarships for local students pursuing their higher education goals.
“You can’t go wrong when you’re golfing with Jake Guentzel, Evgeni Malkin is next to you, Sidney on the other side and Mario walking around. We’re all having a good time, and it’s all for a great cause.” Bill Garrison Summer Sticks Golfer
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KIDS ARE THE FUTURE FREE GAME FOR KIDS To start the 2019.20 season, over 18,000 free tickets were distributed to local youth hockey organizations and children’s charities for the September 28 pre-season Penguins game dubbed the Free Game for Kids presented by Chick-fil-A. A team tradition since 2010, the Free Game for Kids gives our youngest fans an opportunity to attend a home game courtesy of the Penguins Foundation.
OUR ICE During the Free Game for Kids, youth hockey players from around the region delivered ice shavings from their local rinks to PPG Paints Arena through Evoqua’s Our Ice initiative. Representatives from the Steel City Icebergs, Penguins Elite, RMU Island Colonials and Pittsburgh Blind Hockey poured out the shavings from the home rinks during intermission to show the connection between our hockey community and the Pittsburgh Penguins. In total, shavings from 23 different youth rinks were bonded to the ice of PPG Paints Arena.
“It’s awesome to see all the kids here… seeing the next generation of Penguins fans. That’s how you grow the sport.” Jesse Zimmerman Penguins Fan
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S I G N ATU R E EV ENTS
MARCH OF THE PENGUINS 6.6K RUN & FAMILY WALK The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and Mario Lemieux Foundation hosted the 7th Annual 6.6K Run & Family Walk presented by Highmark on October 13. Approximately 5,500 runners and walkers participated in support of the two charities with the race beginning and ending at PPG Paints Arena. Once again, Mario Lemieux made the event memorable by congratulating fans at the finish line, and members of the Penguins Alumni Association assisted throughout the course route. In total, $200,000 was raised by our fittest fans to benefit the Penguins Foundation and Lemieux Foundation.
“I’ve been a huge Pens fan for as long as I can remember… I was a little kid watching the Pens. It’s just so cool to come out here and win a race for my favorite team and support all the great work that’s being done… Colby Armstrong was at the finish line, and he was amped up when I crossed. It was just so, so much fun.” Andrew Zentgrag 6.6K Men’s 1st Place Overall
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FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT HOCKEY FIGHTS CANCER Held throughout the month of November, the league-wide Hockey Fights Cancer initiative aims to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. This season, on November 16, the Penguins hosted their designated Hockey Fights Cancer gameday. Cancer patients and survivors from the UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Oncology, Make-A-Wish Foundation and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center were special guests of the organization. To draw attention to the cause, the Penguins players warmed-up in purple jerseys and used purple stick-tape.
“It is very important for me. My mom actually had breast cancer a year and a half ago and she beat it so just seeing how strong she is and the support you need to go through something like that.” Hannah Hatcher Lady Pens
Nearly $48,000 was raised through the Hockey Fights Cancer jersey and stick auction to benefit the Mario Lemieux Foundation and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center!
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S I G N ATU R E EV ENTS
A PENS SALUTE VE TERANS CELEBRATION On November 8, the Pittsburgh Penguins welcomed Veterans to the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex for morning practice and a locker room tour followed by the Penguins game at PPG Paints Arena the next day. The players wore military-style jerseys in support of the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania that evening on November 9, with over $15,000 raised to support our nation’s bravest.
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“It’s something really awesome that we do. These people put their lives on the line. They do so much for us and our country. It’s just a small gesture in comparison, but we’re happy to do it.“ Bryan Rust Pittsburgh Penguins
3… 2… 1 PENGUINS CHARIT Y GAME The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and Mario Lemieux Foundation teamed up for the 9th Annual Penguins Charity Game on AT&T SportsNet on March 7 raising over $3 million for the two foundations in just one day. A total of 8,100 Penguins Charity Bags were available for sale both online and at the Penguins game. Each Penguins Charity Bag included team merchandise and memorabilia, as well as the chance-to-win an autographed jersey. Since 2012, this annual event has raised over $15 million, with proceeds benefiting the Mario Lemieux Foundation’s cancer research and patient care initiatives plus the Penguins Foundation’s youth programs.
Penguins Charity Bags were mailed to each state and province in the United States and Canada!
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S I G N ATU R E EV ENTS
THE PENS DISCO NIGHT OF ASSISTS Each season, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation transforms PPG Paints Arena into the Night of Assists charity gala hosted by your Pittsburgh Penguins. This season, the hottest hits of the 1970s brought disco fever to PPG Paints Arena for the 3rd Annual Night of Assists proudly presented by Highmark. Pittsburgh’s foxiest ladies and coolest cats helped to raise $450,000 at the Pens party of the year for the Foundation’s youth and special needs programs.
“It is one of the best events we do, and it’s a unique event. Being here we get to see how passionate our fan base is. And the players enjoy it.” Mike Sullivan Head Coach Pittsburgh Penguins
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“This is important for us to do because we should support our fans and help raise money for the Penguins Foundation, which helps so many. It’s our responsibility.” Jim Rutherford General Manager Pittsburgh Penguins
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P L AY ER INI T IAT IVE S
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A NOVEMBER TO REMEMBER PROJEC T BUNDLE - UP The Pittsburgh Penguins spent the afternoon of November 1 shopping with children from Beaver Falls School District through the Salvation Army’s Project Bundle-Up program. Each little fan was paired with one of their hockey idols to peruse the store in search of the warmest winter accessories. Jackets, hats, mittens and more were selected by the kids and gifted by the team making for a memorable and personal Penguins shopping day at DICK’S Sporting Goods.
RAINBOW KITCHEN MEAL SERVE American-born players Zach Aston-Reese, Jake Guentzel, Sam Lafferty, John Marino, Chad Ruhwedel and Bryan Rust visited the Rainbow Kitchen on November 26 to serve a Thanksgiving meal to local residents in Homestead. The players were proud to assist Rainbow Kitchen, which provides a vital safety net for hungry children, struggling families, low-income elderly, disabled individuals and Homestead residents who are homeless or unemployed.
MOVEMBER Bryan Rust served as the Movember representative for the Pittsburgh Penguins. His mo’ raised funds for the fight against prostate cancer and testicular cancer plus raised awareness for mental health initiatives and suicide prevention.
“It’s fun. I love having the opportunity to meet the kids and seeing the energy that they bring. Just how excited they are to get new stuff and meet some of the guys, that’s what it’s all about.” Sidney Crosby Pittsburgh Penguins
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FOR THE KIDS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL VISIT A tradition that began in the early 1980s, the annual Penguins Children’s Hospital Visit is truly an incredible and spirited event. This season, on December 9, each Penguins player shared the joy of the holidays with the kids staying at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh by visiting each child’s room and providing special gifts selected by the team.
“I think it’s one of the great things that our team does. I think our players are terrific with these kids. For us to bring them a day of happiness and inspiration is the least we can do. The real benefactors are us because they inspire us.” Mike Sullivan Head Coach Pittsburgh Penguins
PENGUINS FOR A DAY On February 15, Penguins General Manager Jim Rutherford signed six children from the Make-A-Wish Foundation to honorary one-day contracts making them official Pittsburgh Penguins players for the day. The new members of the Penguins team, Jessica, Michael, Hughes, Allison, Brayden and Morgan, geared up with their very own Penguins jerseys, hit the ice with their Penguins teammates, received a behindthe-scenes tour of the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex and ultimately lived out their dreams per their contract terms and thanks to their hockey heroes at the Pens.
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MAKING MEMORIES CROSBY & MALKIN CHARIT Y SUITES Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin welcomed children from 28 local charities to their own personal suites as their special gameday guests throughout the season. The children were treated to an in-game welcome announcement, visit from Iceburgh and a gift from their player host as a memento to remember the game.
THE PENS GIVE In celebration of the Penguins Foundation’s 10th anniversary season, the Penguins players created a new program to assist the Foundation’s charitable efforts. The Pens Give recognized causes that the players hold close to their hearts by providing the associated organizations with tickets to enjoy a home game. Groups welcomed to PPG Paints Arena through The Pens Give program included: • Allegheny Family Network
• Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
• American Cancer Society
• MS Society
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
• Operation Troop Appreciation
• Connecting Champions
• Veterans Place
• Reading is Fundamental
• Lending Hearts In addition, through The Pens Give, Jared McCann welcomed 58 guests from the MS Society’s Keystone Chapter to a December home game. Afterwards, he held a special post-game visit with his guests, personally signing items and engaging in powerful conversation. Jared’s visit has shown members of the MS Society that no matter what the battle, they are never battling alone.
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HOCKEY HEROES RUST & BJUGSTAD SEATS FOR STRENGTH Through Seats for Strength, Bryan Rust and Nick Bjugstad welcomed children who receive therapeutic services at the Penguins Foundation’s COOL Zone to every home Penguins game. Seats for Strength focused on providing these families with memorable experiences both during the game and post-game when meeting Bryan and Nick.
“Everybody has their adversities, has their struggles. It shouldn’t be something that defeats you or defines you. It should be something that helps you grow as a person and build your character.” Bryan Rust Pittsburgh Penguins
GUENT ZEL HEAR TS OF GOLD Jake Guentzel’s Hearts of Gold program celebrated children with congenital heart defects who are a part of Mended Little Hearts of Southwestern PA. Jake invited children to each home game as his very special guests in an effort to ease their daily stressors and give families an amazing night cheering on the Pens.
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GIVING BACK CROSBY CAR GIVEAWAY After winning a Honda Passport at the 2019 NHL All-Star Game, Sidney Crosby gave one female Veteran the surprise of a lifetime. As a gesture of thanks for the sacrifice and service Madeline Malizio experienced in the military, Sidney donated the car to her. This single mother and Army Specialist was just as excited as her 3-year old son during this incredible moment leading into Veterans Day.
MURRAY GEAR DONATION
“Sidney Crosby got me a car, and it’s been the best day ever. I can’t even put into words how grateful I am and how blessed I feel for what he’s done today.” Madeline Malizio Army Specialist
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As the Penguins Hockey is for Everyone Ambassador, Matt Murray is always working towards making hockey more inclusive. In an effort to support this goal, Matt donated and auctioned his 2018 Stadium Series goalie gear plus a special meet-and-greet experience. Matt’s unique auction raised $12,000 for the Delta Foundation, an organization working to be a catalyst for positive change for the LGBTQ+ community in Western Pennsylvania.
HORNQVIST DIAPER DONATION In an effort to support our newest (and tiniest!) Pittsburgh Penguins fans, the Penguins own #72 donated $7,200 to the Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank. As a father of two, Patric is familiar with the needs and expenses that come with caring for a child, and with his donation, diapers were provided to low-income families throughout the region.
“As a father, I know that some of the simple necessities of having a child can feel overwhelming financially. I am happy to be able to donate a supply of diapers to help ease some cost burden for families in the area – especially around the holidays.” Patric Hornqvist Pittsburgh Penguins
PENGUINS & PAWS The Penguins Foundation partnered with Edgar Snyder to create the team’s annual calendar: Penguins & Paws. Featuring adoptable animals and the players’ very own pets, the calendar raised over $60,000 for Animal Friends, a local shelter in Pittsburgh.
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QUICK HITS
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QUICK HITS
COUNTLESS ASSISTS Throughout the 2019.20 season, the Penguins organization continuously assisted those within Western Pennsylvania with a focus on the Foundation’s pillars of youth hockey, wellness, education and community. Renovate the Rink: The Pittsburgh Penguins teamed up with Pittsburgh Commercial Construction (PittComm) to update a local hockey rink as a part of the Renovate the Rink contest. Congratulations to the Beaver County Ice Arena for being the 2019.20 winner!
Taglianetti Family Golf Outing: In August 2019, the Penguins Foundation assisted the Taglianetti family in hosting an inaugural golf tournament that raised over $51,000 to combat substance abuse in our region. iDesign Classrooms for Kids: Thanks to iDesign, in preparation for the 2019.20 school year, selected teachers from Urban Pathways and Brookline Elementary were given classroom supplies to help them get organized for the first day of school.
Happy Hockey Days: The Penguins Foundation celebrated the hockey holidays with Allegheny County Parks for one week at the end of December by offering complimentary all-girls, special hockey and sled hockey clinics to youth players. The gift of hockey concluded the sled hockey clinic with 18 sleds presented to Allegheny County Parks for future events. Blood Drives: Throughout the season, on November 4, January 6 and March 2, the Penguins hosted blood drives at PPG Paints Arena in partnership with Vitalant.
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Veterans Dek Hockey Clinic with Lamoureux Twins: Jocelyne and Monique Lamoureux visited the Bloomfield Project Power Play dek on September 4 to host an introductory and free hockey clinic for female Veterans from the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania. Operation Shoebox: To spread holiday cheer, the Penguins staff delivered 62 unique shoebox gifts to the senior residents at Manor Care Health Services in McMurray, PA in December 2019. The Shoebox Project: The Penguins Foundation and the Lady Pens stuffed shoeboxes with necessities and special gifts to support the Shoebox Project, an organization that helps women impacted by homelessness in our community. Dunkin’ Fundraiser: To celebrate the holidays, Dunkin’ hosted ‘A Taste of the Holidays’ on November 13 where event proceeds gave back to the Penguins Foundation’s youth efforts.
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QUICK HITS
COUNTLESS ASSISTS DICK’S Sporting Goods Sports Matter: During warm-ups on December 6, the Penguins wore green specialty jerseys, raising $17,000 to support DICK’S Sporting Goods’ Sports Matter initiative, which works to keep youth sports available and active for children in every community. Pens in the Park: Together with Allegheny Parks, Pens in the Park gave youth hockey players and those new to the game the chance to hit the ice outdoors with Penguins Alum Tyler Kennedy for a free, family-friendly event. Penguins Alumni Fishing Derby: Members of the Penguins Alumni Association raised $80,000 for the MageeWomens Research Institute & Foundation’s Nicole Meloche Fund during this fantastic fishing event. Holiday Card Contest: Ten little winners were chosen through the Foundation’s annual Holiday Card Contest receiving tickets to a Penguins game and copies of their beautiful cards as their prize. Adopt-A-Child: The Lady Pens purchased a variety of Christmas gifts for 20 local underprivileged children through this program in partnership with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. Penguins Foundation Donations: Throughout the 2019.20 season, the Penguins Foundation assisted local organizations with their charitable efforts by providing approximately 600 gift bags for raffle prizes and auction items. Visit pittsburghpenguinsfoundation.org for the full list of recipients.
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THANK YOU! 72
The Pittsburgh Penguins organization shares a heartfelt THANK YOU for your continued support of our community and charitable efforts. Whether it’s purchasing a 50/50 Raffle ticket, donating to an auction or joining us at a Foundation event, your assists help us reach our goal of building the brightest future possible for youth in our region. SOCIAL MEDIA: @pensfoundation EMAIL: info@pittsburghpenguinsfoundation.org PHONE: 412.255.1952 WEBSITE: www.pittsburghpenguinsfoundation.org
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@pensfoundation info@pittsburghpenguinsfoundation.org 412.255.1952 One Chatham Center, Suite 300, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219