LAKELAND - During the Family Day weekend, arenas in the Lakeland were alive with community spirit as hockey teams gathered in Cold Lake, Bonnyville, Elk Point and Glendon as part of the regional tournament.
“The Ronald McDonald House Winterland Invitational started in 2018. It started with 24 teams in Bonnyville and Glendon, and has grown to include . . . 48 team . . . And it's one of our huge signature events for the four Ronald McDonald Houses of Alberta,” said Oreen Skiba, the provincial event senior manager for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Alberta.
The tournament, which draws youth hockey teams from across the province, has grown significantly over the years - not only in participation but also in fundraising.
“This year marks our $1 million raised for the Ronald McDonald House,” Skiba explained.
The U9, U11, and U13 minor hockey teams raise funds through team efforts, including raffles and 50/50 draws, while also increasing awareness and generating important donations for RMHC Alberta.
A key driver behind the event’s success is the support from local businesses and volunteers.
“We couldn't do it without the local community. We have the local businesses sponsoring. We have about 93 volunteer shifts that our community members come and volunteer for. Anything from announcers to 50/50 to the registration tables. We would not be able to run this event without the support of the community,” said Skiba.
The tournament also provides young athletes with a unique experience beyond the game itself.
“I think it gives young players a chance to play teams that they wouldn't normally, and it also gives them an opportunity to do something philanthropic as a group. So, it's an extra team-building opportunity.”
Economic boost for the area
With 750 youth athletes participating, the Winterland Invitational is both a fundraising success and an economic boost for the region.
Teams and families eat at local restaurants, stay in hotels, and gas up at fuel stations
“It's a great thing for the community, for the teams, and for the charity,” said Skiba.
Home away from home
The funds raised from the tournament directly support RMHC Alberta’s mission to provide families with a “home away from home” while their children receive medical care in a larger, urban centre.
“We have four houses across the province and we're really a home away from home for families who have to travel for children seeking treatment for their medical journeys,” Skiba explained.
“We serve over 1,200 families a year and so not only do we have accommodations, but we also have a lot of programming that help the families.”
Skiba believes his year’s milestone tournament is worthy of celebration.
“I think just hitting the point that this year we're reaching that $1 million goal is definitely something to celebrate."
