Charitable Donations: 21 For Kids

As it stands, this blog has now covered seven charitable organizations working to make life better for all of us, and we're not stopping there. Heck, it's not even July yet, so let's keep the wheels turning on these great initiatives. Today's charitable organization is based in the midwest USA, and is backed by Minnesota Wild forward Mark Parrish. Mr. Parrish wears #21 for the Minnesota Wild, and the 21 For Kids Foundation was started by him after being personally affected by an instance of a disease. With that in mind, Hockey Blog In Canada is proud to present to you the organization known as 21 For Kids.

Mission Statement: Directly from their website, 21 For Kids "is a child-focused organization that provides grants and funding to Minnesota foundations and individuals, based solely on need, to cover a variety of expenses for children. The areas of need can include, but are not limited to health issues, recreational opportunities, educational funding. This assistance is provided without regard to the child’s age, race, physical abilities, religious beliefs, gender, or ethnic background."

How Did 21 For Kids Start?: I'll allow Mr. Parrish to explain how the organization got started.

"Over the Christmas Holidays in 2004, my three-year-old niece, Ruby, was diagnosed with epilepsy. She suffered a grand mal seizure and was hospitalized for four days. Luckily, my brother’s family was in Freiburg, Germany at the time. Freiburg is the premier neurological study center and hospital for the entire country.

"Once she was tested and placed on medication, things seemed to be okay. However, in May of 2006, she once again experienced a grand mal and was hospitalized at Minneapolis Children's Hospital. Both of these were frightening experiences for all the family members and had a strong impact on me. I felt it was time I did something to help Ruby and other children who need medical care and support. This is why I am starting my 21ForKids.com Foundation. This Foundation is designed to give financial assistance to children like Ruby who need extra medical care."

Epilepsy is a very common disease that gets little exposure compared to things like cancer and heart disease. It is estimated that one in 100 people are afflicted with epilepsy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are currently 2.7 million Americans battling epilepsy, and it primarily affects the very young and elderly.

What Mr. Parrish is doing for children with this affliction is highly commendable. In working with HockeyDocs Charities, 21 For Kids has been able to branch out and help other kids experiencing other medical conditions.

HockeyDocs Charities was started by two Minneapolis doctors, Dr. Mark Fallen and Dr. Marshall Everson. In teaming with Mr. Parrish and 21 For Kids, the two organizations have been able to use their passion for hockey and their vast network and resources to help children within the Twin Cities. Together, the two organizations have partnered to assist the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota, the Children's Miracle Network, the Confidence Learning Center, and Minnesota Special Hockey.

The work being done by these two organizations is helping children throughout Minnesota, and they have a number of people involved with helping the organization. Of course, Mr. Mark Parrish is the man in charge of 21 For Kids, but he receives additional help from NHL players such as Keith Ballard (FLA), Andrew Brunette (COL), Marian Gaborik (MIN), Bret Hedican (CAR), Ryan Malone (PIT), and Willie Mitchell (VAN). There are a number of Hollywood celebrities onboard with these organizations as well.

How Can I Help?: Well, you know there's always the donation thing. However, you can donate money, an auction item, or both if you so choose.

You can become a sponsor of these organizations. Of course, there are a few levels of sponsorship one can undertake. Just fill out the form, and you're on your way!

Of course, if you like the social aspect of supporting these charitable organizations, I recommend you review the upcoming events list to see if anything tickles your fancy. To attend the golf tournament, you must be a sponsor, so I encourage you to review the sponsorship levels if you'd like to play a round of golf with a few celebrities.

Lastly, be sure to sign up for the newsletter to receive updates on the work that 21 For Kids and HockeyDocs Charities are doing within Minnesota. If you have any additional questions, I encourage you to email them at info-at-hockeydocscharities-dot-org.

21 For Kids, HockeyDocs Charities, the NHLPA, and Mark Parrish are helping the communities they live in. It's time for us to help them as well.

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!