December Updates, Family Survey & Food Bank Fundraiser

Hello Humber Valley Families –

I can hardly believe that it’s already December.  When the year first kicked off no one could have envisioned the broad scope of challenges that 2020 would bring to every aspect of our lives including minor hockey. The early cancellation of the 2019-20 season, followed by the indefinite postponement of the 2020-21 season has meant disappointment for players, families, coaches and volunteers. I share this disappointment, but it helps to remind myself of all the incredible things that we have accomplished during this stoppage, and have to look forward to when we finally get back to hockey. These include the launch of our Competitive Development Program (CDP) for players under 9, the roll-out of Atom Pathways and the development of Humber Valley’s new Strategic Plan which will bring a significant evolution in our approach to hockey at Humber Valley.  You will see and hear much more about our short term initiatives and long term vision over the next few months.

Current Status of Hockey in Toronto
Unfortunately, we will have to wait a little while longer to get back to hockey in the City of Toronto.  Last week, the GTHL distributed an update to its members which you can read here.  Ultimately, it outlines that we are on hold until the City of Toronto enters the Orange Zone as designated by provincial health authorities.  At that point, we will be able to return to on-ice training.  Until then, as a sanctioned organization, Humber Valley is unable to conduct any on-ice activity including anything held at outdoor rinks. 

I want to be clear that we have not cancelled the 2020-21 season at Humber Valley.  We are constantly looking at ways to evolve our programs to get players on the ice when it is safe to do so.  At that point, we will establish a new fee structure and families will be given the option to participate or withdraw with a full refund.  I want to also note that families who did not choose to receive a refund in November are able to request one at any time by sending an email to info@humbervalleyhockey.com with the name and birth date of their player.

East vs West Face-Off for the Daily Bread Food Bank
In 2020, the Daily Bread Food Bank (DBFD) saw a +200% increase in demand while their ability to host events to bring in much needed supplies and donations has been significantly impacted by the pandemic. The GTHL has partnered with the DBFB to raise money and food donations to help those experiencing poverty.  Tomorrow, Humber Valley will join the fight against hunger by challenging our friends at the North Toronto Hockey Association to raise funds and food donations for DBFB.  Throughout the week, you will receive updates by email on how you and your player(s) can participate.  I also encourage you to follow us on Facebook where we will post daily updates.

Our initial goal is to come together as an organization to raise $5,000 to support the work of the DBFB and we’ve challenged North Toronto to do the same.  The organization that raises the most, will walk away with bragging rights, but also the opportunity to see the President of the losing organization decked out in the winner’s jersey at their next virtual board meeting.  Red and green really aren’t my colours so I encourage you to dig deep and donate to the DBFB when the campaign kicks off tomorrow.  Stand by for more details and a link to donate to the Humber Valley tally through the Food Goals campaign hosted on the DBFB website.

Family Survey
An important aspect of our path forward is ensuring that we foster a diverse and inclusive environment where each family can have a voice and feel a sense of belonging and ownership.  To achieve this, we need to involve you, our most important stakeholders in the process.  We thought it was a good time to ask you how we’re doing by ways of a short survey.  We know that there is work to be done and the feedback you provide through this survey will go a long way in helping shape our next steps. The survey will only take 3 to 5 minutes to complete.  
Click here to take the survey now.

Happy Holidays!
I cannot thank the players, families, coaches and volunteers of this organization enough. Your unrelenting patience and support this year has been incredible.  I am so proud to be part of this club.  I wish you all a safe and wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!  May it bring health, prosperity and hockey to all!