Our 2017- 2018 Season Recap
The last six months have been a whirlwind. From announcing our creation and partnering with amazing collaboratives to cheering for our favorite hockey team, we have definitely been busy in the GhostBear Den.
As we begin to plan for what will be a very busy summer, we thought it was important to update our supporters on the outstanding success we've had in the last 6 months. It's important to highlight our gratitude as we know our efforts would not be possible without the love and support from all of you. Not only do we thank you from the bottom of our hearts, but each person, organization and recipient who has benefited from our donations thanks you as well.
Now for a little recap:
Lets start with our founder, Shayne Gostisbehere. This past season, not only did he have a season's personal best with a career high in points leading him to win his second Barry Ashbee Trophy as the Flyers' top defenseman, but he began turning heads as fans became aware of both the GhostBear Foundation and our mission. As a result, the Flyer's organization nominated Shayne for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy -- "An award given annually to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and who has made a significant humanitarian contribution to his community".
Since first announcing the GhostBear Foundation in November of 2017, we have raised over $45,000.
Our inaugural event was in collaboration with the Pennsylvania SPCA through our 'Yappy' Hour which raised over $9,000 towards the PSPCA’s life saving mission. Shayne continued to promote the adoption and support of animals through his photoshoot sponsored by Philadelphia PAWS near the end of 2017.
In December 2017, The GBF donated $10,000 to the SFPC Toys in the Sun Run. Funds raised at this event benefits the tens of thousands of patients that visit Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital in Hollywood, Florida; as well as, the James Jr. Fund, which helps children with cancer and special needs.
During the holiday season and in cooperation with the Flyers Organization, Shayne and three of his fellow teammates visited the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Shayne was able to meet with pediatric patients and also participated in various activities including bingo and arts/crafts.
The GhostBear Foundation also donated $10,000 to Union College's Garnet Blades, Shayne’s alma mater located in Schenectady, New York. The Garnet Blades focus on providing the resources to sustain competitive excellence within the NCAA for the Union College Men’s Hockey program.
On March 4th, 2018, the Florida Panthers hosted the Marjory Stoneman Douglas (MSD) High School hockey team during its game against the Philadelphia Flyers. In collaboration with the Panthers, Shayne met with the MSD hockey team and had the opportunity to both share perspective and sign autographs.
On March 23rd, 2018, Dynasty Sports hosted a signing for Shayne and two of his teammates. The proceeds from Shayne’s autograph session paired with funds contributed through the sale of merchandise as well as funding from GBF raised over $13,500. All funds will be donated to the MSD Victims Fund which supports the victims and families of the mass casualty shooting occurring at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14th, 2018 in Parkland, Florida -- Shayne attended MSD for both his Freshman and Sophomore years.
Although it has only been a very short 6 months, our supporters and contributors have made it possible for us to go above and beyond in the various communities we support.
We look forward to a summer full of ideas and planning as we continue to collaborate with the best partners to support our mission.
