City celebrates facility naming rights partners supporting the Hockey Diversity Alliance

The City of Kingston is proud to recognize three remarkable naming rights partners who have chosen to donate more than $6,500 in facility credits to support the impactful work of the Hockey Diversity Alliance (HDA). This generous contribution will directly benefit Kingston’s HDA Grassroots Hockey Program, an initiative dedicated to ending systemic racism and intolerance in hockey while inspiring a new, diverse generation of hockey players and fans.

The Grassroots Hockey Program is a groundbreaking program designed to bring hockey to underserved and non-traditional communities. With support from local partners Hockey Diversity Alliance, BGC Southeast, Kingston & Area Minor Hockey Association, Kingston Frontenacs and the City of Kingston, the program offers free equipment, ice time and coaching to youth aged 6-12 at Cataraqui Community Centre, while also providing meaningful employment and volunteer opportunities for young people aged 15-24.

“Kingston’s HDA Grassroots Hockey Program is thrilled to have the generous support of INVISTA, CaraCo and Mike Lee Desjardins Insurance," said Colton Robb, Kingston Frontenacs. “As the program takes roots in Kingston, this backing is instrumental in ensuring its sustainability. This partnership marks an exciting step forward in giving Kingston youth the chance to experience hockey and help grow the game in our community.”

The program's mission goes far beyond the rink and enriches young lives by providing access to cultural experiences, including field trips to museums, theatres, art exhibits and sporting events. Additionally, mentorship from guest speakers and educational seminars help to build confidence, broaden horizons and create opportunities for growth.

The City's naming rights partners have embraced the Hockey Diversity Alliance’s vision of inclusion and equity by generously redirecting their facility credits, as part of their respective naming rights agreements, to support these transformative programs. INVISTA, CaraCo and Mike Lee Desjardins Insurance have not only shown their dedication to supporting recreational facilities and programming, but have also taken a bold step to help shape the future of hockey by making it more accessible and welcoming for all.

Amy Elgersma, Director, Recreation and Leisure Services, expresses her excitement about the partnership, saying, “We are deeply grateful to our naming rights partners for their generosity and shared commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in hockey. Through their support of the Hockey Diversity Alliance, we are not just growing the game; we are building a stronger, more inclusive community for future generations. Their support demonstrates the power of community partnerships in driving positive change and ensuring hockey becomes a truly inclusive sport for everyone.”

Kingston residents who are part of the Municipal Fee Assistance Program, can now qualify for funds towards participation in the Hockey Diversity Alliance program.

For more information about the Hockey Diversity Alliance, and how you can get involved, visit the HDA website.