Several of the Lions’ student-athletes went out of their way during this past holiday season to give back to the local community. The Lions fundraised money among themselves and collected around $1,600, which they then used for two separate initiatives.
In the first initiative, the athletes gave gifts to five outstanding youth in the Jane and Finch community. In the second initiative, the athletes delivered gifts to a young family of four that had recently immigrated to Canada from Nigeria.
The five youth who were recognized were selected by their schools and community centres based on the criteria of being good student-athletes and being actively involved in community projects. They were given Lions backpacks, t-shirts, hoodies, and toques, as well as gift cards and tickets to all of the Lions’ home events in 2016.
In cooperation with the York University TD Community Engagement Centre, the Lions hosted an appreciation night for these outstanding young individuals as well. Many of York’s top athletes attended what turned out to be a fun-filled evening of breaking the ice and sharing their experiences over dinner.
For each member of the family of Nigerian immigrants, the Lions bought a new winter jacket, winter boots, and warm clothing.
“The fundraising for the Adopt-A-Family initiatives was done by athletes from all of York’s varsity teams,” says Sheereen Harris.
Harris is a track and field athlete for the Lions and is also currently the president of York’s Sport Council. Other athletes involved came from the Lions’ hockey, football, rugby, soccer, and basketball teams.
“Giving back to the community has always been and continues to be very important to the Lions,” says Harris. “We’ve become more aware of how big of an impact the Lions can have when we work together, which is why we try to encourage collective opportunities to give back that involves all teams working towards the same initiative.”
And by taking part in these efforts, the Lions are united for a good cause. “It brings the Lions closer together as athletes competing on different teams, but still representing York more than merely our own athletic arenas. In doing so, these initiatives also act to increase school spirit and pride while hopefully benefiting the community at the same time.”
The Lions are looking to take part in more community initiatives in the future. For the early part of 2016, they plan to have some athletes work with elementary school students in the local community in a multi-week sport clinic and mentorship program.
“So far we have received interest from several schools that would like to have some of York’s athletes run clinics with their respective sport,” says Harris.
“The goal of this initiative is to give back to the community and use sports to build healthy relationships with youth and mentor them.”
Hassam Munir, Sports and Health Editor
Photo courtesy of York Lions