About
#HockeyChangesLives
How Did It All Start?
The Hendrickson Foundation began organically in 2011 through discussions between Larry and friend, US Hockey Coach-In-Chief, Mike “Mac” MacMillan, about an extreme lack of participation within disabled hockey programs in Minnesota. This lit the fire that led to the eventual creation of Larry’s, Hendrickson Foundation, in partnership with USA Hockey and MN Hockey, with a mission to grow the game of hockey by making it accessible to ALL people, despite any challenges they may be living with and creating a stronger and more inclusive State of Hockey. Aut inveniam viam aut faciam, a latin proverb meaning, “I shall either find a way or make one”, became a sort of mantra for Larry and the foundation. Better yet, it became our promise to the community.
Enrich Lives. Break Barriers.
Hockey Changes Lives® Testimonials:
Over the years, we’ve heard countless stories about how hockey has changed the lives of the athletes we support. We’ve learned how significant that benefit is for the players and their families. On and off-ice, it’s much bigger than hockey. Here are a few of their stories.
More Than Just a Game!
The values of life gained by the lessons through sport affect both the individuals and their families. The sport challenges and develops players as individuals and athletes; it promotes physical and mental health, as well as sportsmanship, camaraderie, self-confidence and a sense of belonging. For many of these athletes this is the end of retreating inward, and the beginning of reaching out socially to participate, create relationships and have some fun!
Who Do We Support?
- Individuals of all ages
- Individuals with developmental and cognitive disabilities
- Individuals with behavioral, emotional and/or social disabilities
- Individuals with medical and/or physical disabilities
- Individuals who are blind/low vision or deaf/hard of hearing
- Veterans with combat and/or non-combat related injuries and/or who are otherwise disabled
Goals for Participants!
Experience joy and camaraderie within a safe, team setting.
Increase participation in social opportunities outside the home to lessen isolation and grow players’ and family supportive networks.
Grow the programs by sharing your “Hockey Changes Lives” life testimonials!
Improve physical health and personal hockey skills on-ice to develop self-confidence and independence off-ice.
Cultivate a community that empowers individuals to strive to meet their goals, while collectively continuing to break barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive world.
