Montreal – In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki has announced the establishment of “The Captain’s Circle,” a new initiative under the Foundation of Canadians for Childhood. This program is designed to provide unique and uplifting experiences for young peopel facing notable challenges.

Suzuki’s personal commitment involves an annual donation that will enable hundreds of young individuals dealing wiht illnesses, special needs, or the recent loss of a parent, to enjoy a memorable experience at a dedicated lodge within the Bell Centre. The goal is to offer respite from their hardships, even if just for the duration of a hockey game.

Being sensitive to the difficulties experienced by vulnerable young people and their families, I wanted to help and get involved with them by offering them the chance to experience magical and soothing moments. As a professional hockey player, I consider myself privileged to do what I like and to be in a position that allows me to give back to the community.

– Nick Suzuki, Captain, Montreal Canadiens

Suzuki’s motivation stems from a deep understanding of the challenges these young people face. His aim is to leverage his position as a professional athlete to make a tangible difference in their lives. This initiative mirrors similar efforts by athletes across the U.S.,such as the “Hope Lodge” program supported by the American Cancer Society,which provides free lodging to cancer patients and their caregivers,offering a supportive surroundings akin to the “Captain’s Circle” concept.

Beyond the opportunity to attend a hockey match, I hope that the Captain’s circle will offer young people and their family a festive, secure and benevolent space, where they can spend positive moments together while they are going through a challenging period.

– Nick Suzuki, Captain, Montreal Canadiens

This sentiment echoes the broader movement of athletes using their platforms for social good, a trend increasingly visible in American sports leagues like the NFL and NBA, where players are actively involved in charitable work and community outreach.

The Foundation team collaborates closely with suzuki, his spouse caitlin Fitzgerald, community organizations, and children’s hospitals to identify young people who would benefit most from an evening in the lodge. The program will also address individual requests to fulfill the dreams of children facing precarious circumstances or end-of-life situations. This targeted approach ensures that the support reaches those who need it most, maximizing the impact of the initiative.

Impact and reach

During the 2023-2024 season, Suzuki demonstrated his commitment by donating a lodge to allow children in need to experience the thrill of a game at the Bell Centre. The newly formalized “Lodge Le Cercle du Captain” has already hosted nearly 700 young people during the past season and the current one. this immediate impact highlights the program’s effectiveness in providing joy and support to vulnerable youth.

This kind of direct engagement resonates deeply with communities, fostering a sense of hope and solidarity. In the U.S., similar initiatives, such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation, have demonstrated the profound impact of granting wishes to children with critical illnesses, underscoring the importance of programs like “The Captain’s Circle.”

Foundation’s Long-Standing Commitment

since its inception in August 2000, the Canadiens for Childhood Foundation has invested over $48 million in the Montreal and Quebec community, supporting more than 900 organizations dedicated to the well-being of vulnerable children throughout the province. The Foundation’s primary objective is to promote healthy lifestyles through physical activity among young people in need.

The Foundation’s work aligns with national efforts to address childhood adversity and promote positive youth growth. In the U.S., organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Big Brothers Big Sisters play crucial roles in providing support and mentorship to at-risk youth, mirroring the Canadiens Foundation’s commitment to fostering a brighter future for children in need.