By Matt Charbonneau
Local charities say the new Ottawa Senators Foundation is a great idea, but need further details before they ask for assistance with their fund-raising goals.
The foundation, launched by the team Oct. 20, is aimed at supporting community and charitable activities. It will provide financial and merchandise donations, as well as player appearances at community events.
But with few concrete details about the project released, charities say it’s too early to plan activities.
“It certainly is a good idea; it’s a match made in heaven,” says Dominique Daniel-Lepine, Big Brothers of Ottawa-Carleton’s marketing and fund-raising manager.
“It would be wonderful for the Sens to provide some of the building blocks for our kids,” she says, adding Big Brothers will submit a request.
Noting the charity’s past relationship with Senators owner Rod Bryden, Daniel-Lepine adds she’s confident Big Brothers fits the foundation’s mould.
Maureen Moloughney, director of the Bronson Centre, believes the Senators will have difficulty assisting all charities.
“They will be really challenged to help everyone who asks for assistance from them,” she says. “(But) I really admire their commitment to the community.”
Moloughney says the centre would be an ideal charity because it serves many causes like literacy needs, alcoholism, epilepsy, senior citizens and low-income families.
John Bouza, director of development at the Boys and Girls Club, says the club has had a strong relationship with the team since its inception in 1992 through donations of game tickets and merchandise, as well as player participation at various activities.
Bouza hopes the Senators will continue supporting programs for children.
“If there’s a chance to support any of these programs, we’d be glad to talk to them,” he says.
Marie Olney, the foundation’s executive director, says information such as which organizations are to be assisted will be determined within the next two months.
Although she won’t reveal which organizations have asked for the foundation’s aid, Olney says the team receives about 150 requests per week to participate in various activities.
Olney says the foundation will consider requests from all charities equally, but adds its primary concern will be for the region’s disadvantaged children.