USHL Waterloo Black Hawks

Black Hawks Honored for Work in the Community

Published on April 13, 2012 under United States Hockey League (USHL)
Waterloo Black Hawks News Release


Waterloo, Iowa-The Waterloo Black Hawks were recognized with the Business Partner of the Year Award by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance at their Annual Nonprofit Awards Luncheon today. The event, which was the organization's eighth annual awards luncheon, was held in the Commons Ballroom on the UNI campus.

"Honoring those who have made a difference in the Cedar Valley allows us to shine a spotlight on just some of the many incredible things that are going on in our community," said Beth Messerli, a UNI senior majoring in leisure, youth and human services and the chair of professional development for the UNI Nonprofit Leadership Alliance Student Association.

The Black Hawks were nominated by the Boys & Girls Club of Black Hawks County for the team's ongoing volunteer work with the organization, which is highlighted by the "Bench Buddies" program. "Bench Buddies," a twelve-week fitness program, pairs fourteen Black Hawks players with members of the Evansdale Boys & Girls Club. Throughout the program, which was held at the YMCA of Black Hawk County, the players and kids participated in sports such as kickball, floor hockey, and basketball, with the goal of keeping the kids active and engaged in physical activities. "Bench Buddies," along with other community service endeavors, caught the eye of the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance.

"Your remarkable efforts with the various programs you run for the kids at the Boys & Girls Club has made a huge impact on the lives of those kids," said Julianne Gassman, executive director of the UNI Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. "We want to thank you for your dedication, service, and the notable impact you have made in our local area."

Throughout the 2011-2012 season, the Black Hawks have also partnered in fundraising efforts with Waterloo Youth Hockey Association, Cedar Bend Humane Society, Sullivan-Hartogh-Davis Post 730 Honor Flight, and Northeast Iowa Food Bank. In addition, the Hawks continue to participate in volunteer programs with Partners in Education at Lincoln Elementary.

Besides the Business Partner of the Year, the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance presented awards in several other categories, including Nonprofit Staff Leader of the Year, Nonprofit Board Member of the Year, and Exceptional Nonprofit of the Year. UNI's Nonprofit Leadership Alliance is a chapter in a national organization founded in 1948 with the goal of connecting entry-level employees from colleges and universities with non-profit organizations.

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