The Predators Play a Pivotal Role In Our City

During the management presentation at the Skate of the Union, Predators Chief Operating Officer Sean Henry complimented the fans for their support of the Predators Foundation. Henry stated that last year, the Foundation had given out $750,000 in grants and donations to charitable enterprises throughout middle Tennessee.

That number is stunning.

Stunning not only for the sheer dollars that were given this past year, but for the impact that the Foundation has in our communities and cities to better the lives of our citizens.

Over the years, there has been debate about the economic benefit of the team to Nashville. Studies have been completed that show the positive effect of the team on the revenues that are generated on game nights and the sales taxes that are created by the spending of fans. Arguments have been made on both sides as to the extent of the economic benefit that the team creates.

What cannot be argued is the the economic benefit of the Predators Foundation.

From the beginning, the ethos of the team and the organization has been to be a good corporate citizen. Through silent auctions at the games and various fund raising endeavors, the Foundation has gathered funds and in turn delivered those funds to organizations that are changing lives for the better. Every year, the amount given has grown, and in turn, Nashville and surrounding cities have been the beneficiaries of this generosity.

Like the team, the Foundation is striving to be an even bigger player. Henry stated that the goal is for the Foundation to double the amount they are distributing to charities.

That means that the Foundation will be involved in more fundraising activities, and of course, it means that the Predator fans will have to continue to support the Foundation.

The next opportunity to do so will be on September 17th as the Foundation in conjunction with the Peterson for Parkinson's Foundation will host "Petey's Party" at the Bridgestone Arena. There will be great auction items, a fantastic dinner, and opportunities to interact with the players and coaches. This event is an opportunity to meet the players in a relaxed setting before the rigors of the season (hopefully) begin the following weekend.

More information about the event are to purchase tickets can be found here.

To give you an idea of  the kind of night you can expect, I have some photos from last year's party:

Some of the auction items on display

Gnash made an appearance as only he can

 

Over 900 people attended last year's party

 

Fans have an opportunity to visit with Head Coach Barry Trotz

 

Brent Peterson speaks to the audience

 

Carrie Underwood performs for the crowd

 

The Foundation is also hosting a golf tournament the next day, and the field is almost sold out. You can also register for the golf tournament at the site that was linked above.