On May 10, 2014, hockey enthusiasts lived out their fantasy to play alongside NHL greats and current Women’s Team Canada Olympic gold medal winners. London’s first Hockey Helps the Homeless (HHTH) tournament was also a success for people in need raising $270,000 for local organizations such as Youth Opportunities Unlimited. This was most financially successful inaugural event in HHTH history.
The London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR) sponsored the tournament and 70 REALTORS® played hockey and/or assisted with promotion and fundraising. Among these were three members of Sutton Group – Preferred Realty Inc.: Dan Grantham, Gerry Weir and Warren Shantz.
Broker Warren Shantz has been playing hockey for 55 years and also coached the varsity women’s team at Western University for a decade. Warren was one of the top 10 individual fundraisers with $2,055 in donations. “Hockey Helps the Homeless is a great cause and it’s organized by a fabulous group,” says Warren. “They call this a ‘fantasy hockey tournament’ and it really is a dream for people who love the game!”
Dan Grantham and Warren served on LSTAR’s organizing committee and were commended by Tracy Marino of LSTAR as a being “integral” to the success of the event. Gerry Weir, Broker of Record at Sutton Group – Preferred Realty Inc., generously sponsored his team and played alongside them. His team was among the top 10 fundraisers with donations totalling $9,825.
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on theSutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
