Brad Gillies and front office staff to hold kick-off event Thursday.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Rochester Knighthawks announced today that they are once again teaming up with Villa of Hope. Through the partnership, the Knighthawks are launching a new school program, which supports Villa of Hope’s mission of empowering families and youth to rebuild, recover and renew their lives.
The Knighthawks will host a kick-off event on Thursday, Nov. 8 in the Villa of Hope gym at 3300 Dewey Ave. Defenseman Brad Gillies and members of the Knighthawks staff will conduct three Lacrosse 101 events, beginning at 12:30 p.m.
“Our collaboration with the Rochester Knighthawks is a creative twist to educate youth and families on how to prevent drug use, boost physical and mental health, and reduce the stigma about talking openly regarding these issues,” said Villa of Hope Chief Advancement Officer Gerianne Puskas. “These are difficult topics for youth to talk about. The Knighthawks are great ambassadors to help Villa of Hope get kids and parents talking about tough issues. We are grateful and excited to be working with the Knighthawks on this initiative and for their support of the Villa through the Teddy Bear Auction and activities with our youth.”
During the 2018-19 season, Knighthawks players, along with Villa of Hope staff, will bring a message of hope and strength to local students.
“The Knighthawks are proud to continue our partnership with Villa of Hope,’” said Knighthawks VP of Sales John Catalano. “We take our role as community ambassadors very seriously. We look forward to supporting Villa’s efforts to educate Rochester area students on how to navigate through some of life’s toughest challenges.”
To learn more about the program, please call (585) 454-4295 or go online to www.knighthawks.com.
The Knighthawks will also offer financial support to Villa of Hope students and teachers by hosting a Teddy Bear Auction on Saturday, Feb. 22 at Connors & Ferris Field at the Blue Cross Arena. Fans can place their bids on the Build-A-Bear Workshop animals, created by the players, at the Villa of Hope auction table during the Knighthawks-Buffalo Bandits game.
About Villa of Hope
Villa of Hope specializes in helping youth overcome emotional and behavioral challenges to build lifelong strengths. The Villa’s community-based, outpatient, residential and educational programs address behavioral health, mental health, and chemical dependency needs by providing trauma-responsive care and developing life-skills. Founded in 1942, Villa of Hope serves more than 3,500 young people and their families annually. For more information, please visit www.villaofhope.org.