Introducing Play It Forward: Fueling Canada’s Para Ice Hockey Athletes

We’re thrilled to announce Play It Forward — a student-led community fundraiser supporting Canada’s National Para Ice Hockey Team on their road to the 2026 Winter Paralympics!

Hosted by students from Algonquin College’s Recreation and Leisure Services program, this event brings together sport, inclusion, and community in one exciting afternoon at Carleton University’s Ice House. Our goal is to raise $1,000 to help fund equipment, travel, and training for our national para athletes while giving students and community members a chance to experience the world of adaptive sport firsthand.

What’s Happening

This isn’t your average fundraiser — it’s an interactive, inclusive celebration of para sport!

Here’s what you can expect:

• Sledge Hockey Try-It Event (12:30–2:30 PM):

Experience the thrill of para ice hockey for yourself! With guidance from Abilities Ottawa and local volunteers, participants will have the chance to get into a sled, take a few shots, and see why this sport is as empowering as it is exciting.

• Bake Sale (12:00–3:00 PM):

Grab a treat and give back! Our team and community bakers will be selling cookies, muffins, and other sweets, with proceeds going directly to Team Canada’s para program.

• Raffle Draw – Win One of Three Themed Baskets!

Try your luck at winning one of our amazing raffle prizes:

🏒 Hockey Canada Fan Basket – sponsored by Hockey Canada

♿ Helperly Accessibility & Independence Basket – sponsored by Helperly

☕ Sunrise Sensations Wellness Basket – featuring fitness and self-care items

All funds raised through ticket sales and donations will support Hockey Canada’s Para Ice Hockey Program and the incredible athletes representing Canada at the Paralympic Games.

Why It Matters

Adaptive sport changes lives. It builds confidence, community, and belonging — values that go far beyond the rink. By participating, donating, or even stopping by for a treat, you’re helping to make sport more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

This event is made possible through the support of Abilities Ottawa, Hockey Canada, Carleton Recreation Rentals, and local partners like Creole Sensations and Sunrise Sensations Studio & Café.

How You Can Get Involved

• Join us at Carleton University for the event!

• Donate through our GoFundMe page

• Share our posts and spread the word about inclusive sport.

• Volunteer, sponsor, or bring friends to the Try-It day — every bit of support counts!

Together, we can make a difference — one shot, one bake sale cookie, and one act of kindness at a time.

Join us in playing it forward for Canada’s para ice hockey athletes.