Written by: Krista Conrad, National Blog Writer
Sport Central in Edmonton recently received a $13,707 boost from the Kinsmen Club of Edmonton.
The donation was part of the Club’s Kinsmen Community Grants initiative, which supports local organizations that make a lasting difference in the community. Fundraising efforts and gaming proceeds raised by the Kinsmen Club of Edmonton fuel the grant program.
Each year, the club decides where the dollars collected for the Kinsmen Community Grants may have the greatest impact.
“We focus on capital projects, such as equipment, renovations, or upgrades that help organizations continue their good work for years to come,” said President Matthew Jacula.
He said the Kinsmen Community Grants program is a very hands-on, volunteer-driven process that reflects what the Kinsmen Club of Edmonton is all about: helping where help is needed most.
Applications are accepted each fall and winter, and many groups are invited to present their projects and needs to Club members to facilitate the decision-making process. This year, Sports Central was chosen as a 2025 recipient as members determined the mandate of the organization aligned with the values of the Club, he said.
“Supporting youth in sports is very important to our club,” said Jacula. “We also run Super Sports Day, a free sports camp for kids aged 7 to 14 that focuses on skill-building, health, and fun. Seeing the confidence and connection that come from participation reminds us why we value organizations like Sport Central.”
Sport Central was founded in 1991 and is an Alberta-based charity that collects, repairs, and redistributes gently-used sports equipment to youth ages 4 – 17 whose families face financial hardship.
The organization serves children from Red Deer to Alberta’s northern border, and helps them participate in more than 20 different sports, including hockey, soccer, biking, and skiing.
Providing access to required equipment gives these youth a sense of belonging and allows them to experience something that may otherwise be out of reach, said Jacula.
The Kinsmen Community Grant helps Sport Central continue this important work, and he said the Club is proud to support the initiative.
“Supporting organizations like Sport Central is a big part of what keeps our members motivated and proud to be Kinsmen,” said Jacula. “Our motto, ‘Serving the Community’s Greatest Need,’ guides everything we do, and projects like this show that even small contributions can make a real difference.
“It is rewarding to know that our efforts help open doors for kids who might not otherwise get the chance to play. That kind of impact keeps us inspired to continue giving back.”