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The Humboldt Broncos bus tragedy shook the country back in April and left many Canadians looking for ways to grieve the huge loss.
Canadians left hockey sticks outside their doors to honour those that died and a near record-breaking GoFundMe account was created to help the families hurt by the tragedy.
In Kelowna, a group of 12 young professionals, many of whom former hockey players themselves, wanted to create something a bit more tangible to remember those who were lost.
The group began an initiative making zip tags etched with the initials “HB 29” (Humboldt Broncos, 29 people on the bus) and selling them for a minimum $5 donation, with all proceeds going to the Broncos organization.
“The idea was to create something tangible that would outlast a wristband or a stick by the door, which were all great initiatives but we wanted something that will always be there and specifically on a hockey bag,” explained Kurt Jory.
“When you're playing hockey you get pretty narrow-minded on wins and losses, but I think it’s a great reminder to remember this team and focus on the bigger perspective on what life is about.”
Jory traveled to Humboldt, Saskatchewan last weekend to present the proceeds to Broncos management inside the team's home arena.
"It was incredible to put a face and personality behind where the proceeds are going. Hearing about their plans to redevelop the organization and how much support they have received from across Canada was overwhelming," said Jory.
"They really loved the zip tag concept because its something that brings the hockey community together, it's about enjoying the journey of being a hockey player, making friends along with memories and not just focusing on wins."
The charitable initiative generated a total of $4,000 in donations for the Broncos organization and according to Jory, the team is now interested in continuing to work on charitable initiatives with the Kelowna group.
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