As National Volunteer Week nears, let's celebrate all those who bring heart to our communities! The 2022 theme is Empathy In Action. The empathy, compassion and generosity of volunteers create connected and stronger communities.

For all those who volunteer their time inside and outside our hockey community, CARHA Hockey and our partner company, iPlayHockey say Thank You. We don't say it enough, and sometimes thanks just isn't enough!

This winter, we ran our first outdoor rink campaign and were introduced to many fantastic rink volunteers from across Canada through the stories and nominations submitted. It takes a lot of hours to keep these rinks active year over year, and without the hard work and dedication of volunteers and community members, we would not be able to enjoy this iconic winter tradition!

Take a look through the submissions!

The Monkland & District Community Centre in Monkland, Ontario, is run by volunteers who have done amazing work to make a difference and keep this centre a part of the community. With volunteer help and material donations, the town upgraded a small outdoor skating area to build a 40 x 100-foot outdoor rink for the public to use, offering an outdoor hockey league, ice skating lessons, and figure skating lessons with a qualified teacher.

What started at the beginning of the pandemic with some borrowed boards and a purchased tarp has become a wonderful space they are proud of. 

Continue reading to see the final product!

A colleague's hockey stick coaster inspired us to seek out other creative items that have been made from recycled hockey equipment. Got a project or piece of art that you're proud of? Share it with us to get featured on our social media channels!

Send us your photo!