Flames Poker Tournament
The Flames Ambassadors’ Celebrity Poker Tournament raised over $610,000 last Tuesday, January 21. Camera flashes wash the room as the oversized novelty cheque is presented in a softly-lit room with hues of red and the familiar sound of western wear and mirth – it’s a buzz.
Over half a million dollars, 611 thousand dollars to be exact. Wow. 442 poker players, three meal services, thousands of poker chips, 65 auction items, 13 live auction items, 98 sponsors, 450 gifts, numerous donors, two full rooms, 53 volunteers and… $611 thousand dollars. When the auction items are collected, the banners are down and the frames dismantled, what happens to those dollars you worked so hard to earn, so hard to raise.
I will tell you and we hope you are proud. Because, this is your work.
You create programs for youth impacted by a range of disabilities. You create places for southern Alberta kids to learn and play. You provide respite and care for families impacted by illness and disease. You serve warm lunches and nurturing snacks to small growling bellies.
Calgary Flames Foundation – By the Numbers
- 4,565 grade 6 students access Calgary YMCAs at no cost – 86% of those students new to the YMCA. 79% reported being more active. 60% stated the membership was important to their overall wellness and 39% cited improved mental wellness.
- 496 kids can access the game of hockey through the Flames EvenStrength Program – financial assistance for registration fees. They also qualify to receive equipment from the Flames Sports Bank. This includes a new helmet and an overwhelming sense of belonging.
- 116 charities received funds from the Calgary Flames Foundation last season.
- 24 students received scholarships.
- 96 children impacted by cancer have access to physio through the Kids Cancer Care PEER program.
- 1 camp for youth impacted for cancer – you helped enhance and expand Camp Kindle.
- 4 schools adopted with a health facilitator placed in each with the APPLE Schools Foundation.
- 2,296 nights of care provided at the Rotary Flames House, for families with a child with life-limiting illness.
- 5 bicycle pump tracks, 15 outdoor rinks and 7 accessible playgrounds with the Parks Foundation.
From western wear and mirth to frigid yet fresh outdoor rinks to brightly coloured children’s rooms nuzzled in the corners of dark times for families, this is your work. And we could not do it without you.