Houston Youth Hockey Group
Houston Youth Hockey Group is dedicated to making youth hockey accessible and affordable in Houston. We are proud to partner with local schools, sports leagues, community centers, and other organizations to create new opportunities for children of all backgrounds. Our mission is twofold: firstly, we want to grow the game of youth hockey by providing access to equipment, coaching resources, and training materials; secondly, we want to make sure that no child lacks the opportunity or resources necessary for them to play hockey. Through our programming and fundraising efforts, we strive to provide every child in Houston with an equal chance at experiencing the joys of playing hockey.
Our core values:
Engagement: Engaging with underprivileged local youth to provide new opportunities and leverage the sport of hockey as a catalyst to teach essential life skills and the core values of hockey: commitment, perseverance, and teamwork is an incredible opportunity for youth in underserved communities. It helps open up opportunities for them that they may not have otherwise had access to. Hockey players can be role models who demonstrate discipline, dedication, and hard work - all important qualities that are needed in order to succeed. Coaches can also use the game of hockey to help teach basic principles such as problem solving, communication skills, goal setting, collaboration and working together towards a common objective. These experiences will serve as valuable tools for these young people in their future endeavors.
Growth: We plan to increase youth hockey participation by targeting four-to ten-year-old boys and girls across the Houston Metroplex. We will work to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive game in order to foster a welcoming environment for all. To achieve this goal, we will implement programs that focus on introducing more children from underserved communities and different backgrounds to the sport of hockey. Our initiatives will include providing access to equipment, coaching resources, and mentorship opportunities for these children. Additionally, we are working with local organizations in order to create scholarships that can help cover costs associatedwith participation in the sport. With our initiatives, we believe that we can create more opportunities for young people to engage in hockey and create a more inclusive and diverse playing environment.
Our Programs:
Community Engagement Program:
Despite Houston being a non-traditional hockey market, the Community Engagement Program is still doing its part to help grow the game. The program consists of programs that teach kids the basics of hockey and how to play, off the ice and on. This gives everyone the chance to learn more about this great sport and develop their skills further. In addition, there are various events held throughout the year where people can come together and enjoy playing hockey in a friendly environment.
The limited ice availability does pose some challenges for those wishing to get involved in hockey in Houston; however, organizations have been working hard to make sure that everyone has access to affordable ice time so they can continue developing their skills without breaking the bank.
Community Awareness Program:
Attending community fairs, festivals, and events is an important part of our mission at the Houston Youth Hockey Group. We want to make sure that local youth are aware of our organization and the opportunities they have to play hockey in Houston. By attending these events, we can build relationships with local children and potentially get them interested in joining our programs. We also get a chance to introduce parents or guardians and other adults to the sport of hockey. These events allow us to showcase what makes hockey such a great game for all ages. We can explain why it's important for kids to develop coordination and teamwork skills through this sport, as well as how playing hockey can help their overall physical health and mental wellbeing. Our team also has the opportunity to meet with other community organizations and businesses. We can partner with local businesses to help cover the costs of attending these events, which helps us make sure that our programs remain financially feasible.
OUR OPERATIONS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Houston Youth Hockey Group is governed and operated by a board of directors composed of six individuals. Although independent directors govern our organization, we welcome feedback, suggestions, and opinions from directors of other programs and rinks.
USA HOCKEY AND TAHA RELATIONS:
Houston Youth Hockey Group operates as an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization away from any charter or rink. Our organization does not hold membership with USA Hockey or Texas Amateur Hockey Association. Any on-ice programs that our organization manages/hosts are fulfilled through a partnership with a USA Hockey registered rink or charter organization.
LOCAL PROGRAM RELATIONS:
We are committed to growing the game of hockey in Houston. In doing so, our organization is proud to open the door to any other organization, rink, or governing body that wishes to help with our cause. We negotiate and partner with all organizations equally, as it is fundamental to grow the game across all age levels, divisions, and programs to ensure the game's smooth and even growth.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST GUIDELiNES:
All Houston Youth Hockey Group directors must disclose conflict of interests before joining the board of directors. Conflict of interest guidelines is available at the end of the organization’s bylaws. These policies are set in place to allow for a unique and unbiased manner of growing the game. Although, conflict of interest policies may change as determined by the board of directors