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Many players on the New York Islanders have found ways to give back.
Whether its on their own time or as a team, the organization is notorious for finding ways to give back and help those in need.
Maybe its poker nights with Matt Martins Foundation, Kan Jam Tournaments outside Northwell Ice Center with former Islanders Captain Anders Lee, or events hosted by Kyle Palmieri, giving back to veterans and their families.
Its a team that knows what it means to set hockey aside and show up off the ice for an important cause.
The Kyle Palmieri Foundation was created to ensure military members and their families would be supported.
Especially so when their service comes to an end.
Through the foundation, partnerships are formed to offer services and resources to the veteran community.
It gives veterans and their families a place to turn.
They also increase awareness around financial resources, mental health, healthcare, financial stability, and employment opportunities.
It gives veterans and their families a sense of stability, however they may need it.
The foundation had been created to give back and, as mentioned, to support those who have served.
It goes beyond that for Palmieri, who has personal ties to military service that inspired him to take on the idea to show his appreciation.
This began with Squad21, a program that started in 2016.
Under Squad21, veterans, service members, and their families get tickets to an Islanders home game and a moment to meet Palmieri afterwards.
Its a meaningful way to give back.
It leaves a positive and lasting impact.
The numbers speak for themselves on how important this moment is.
There have been over 100 Sqaud21 games, which benefited nearly 2,300 participants.
The foundation has evolved, but this initial initiative lives on under the larger umbrella of the organization.
ROGER New York is the newest project for the organization.
Its a platform that gives veterans and their families a place to start when there is a sense of overwhelm.
Many veterans are unsure of where to begin; figuring out how or where to obtain services can be difficult for anyone in need.
Reducing uncertainty is a priority.
ROGER New York streamlines the process.
The resource-based program is a free, online program that connects those in need with updated services and programs throughout New York.
The proceeds that are raised are helping to launch this program.
This online resource program was first implemented in New Jersey.
With the success ROGER has had in New Jersey, bringing it to New York would be a no-brainer.
More information about ROGER New York can be found on the Kyle Palmieri website and social media pages.
Last October, the foundation hosted an Oktoberfest in Garden City on Long Island, bringing out players to casually mingle with fans for the afternoon.
Fans and players were able to enjoy their afternoon while helping a larger cause.
Local Long Island breweries have gotten involved too.
Lunch Box Brewing, a brewery in Bellmore, on Long Island, created several special edition beers highlighting Palmieri and his foundation.
They hosted a watch party last season, which brought fans out for a fun night and a reason to give back.
Fans can get involved a little later this summer.
Not only is it a way to get excited for the upcoming season, but it supports a local cause.
The Kyle Palmieri Foundation is hosting a family-friendly Summer BBQ at Greenport Harbor Brewing Co.
in Peconic, on the East End of Long Island, on August 9th, from 12-3 pm.
Several players will be in attendance, along with live music and a silent auction filled with great items.
Tickets are on sale now, and additional information can be found on the foundations website and social media.
Proceeds will continue to support local veterans and ROGER New York.
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