Glencross Invitational Charity Roughstock Rodeo & Poker Event Present Funds to Hockey Alberta Founda

More than $200,000 was raised in support of two worthwhile Red Deer organizations at the annual Glencross Invitational Charity Roughstock Rodeo & Poker Event, held in August.

Curtis Glencross, and representatives from the event, were in attendance on November 9 to present cheques to the two beneficiaries of the event - Ronald McDonald House Charities® Central Alberta and the Hockey Alberta Foundation’s Every Kid Every Community program.

“The 4th Annual Glencross Invitational was a great success again this year” said Glencross. “We indeed have loyal support. The rodeo and evening concert was great entertainment and a perfect way to spend your Friday night. I would like to thank all of our loyal sponsors.”

The charity poker and rodeo was held August 20-21, with all proceeds – a total of $226,000 donated to the two organizations. A total of $90,400 directed to the Hockey Alberta Foundation and $135,600 to Ronald McDonald House® Central Alberta. With this year’s contribution, the event has now surpassed the $1 Million mark in its four year history.

“It costs $1.2 million to operate the House every year,” said Larry Mathieson, CEO, Ronald McDonald House Charities® Southern & Central Alberta. “Without the fundraising support of the community, corporations and individuals like Curtis Glencross, we wouldn’t be able to meet those annual goals. Today’s donation will help us to continue to provide a home away from home for families from rural communities surrounding Red Deer with sick children in the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre.

Since opening in 2012, more than 2,500 families have stayed at Ronald McDonald House in Red Deer or made use of the facility during the day, while their child was receiving treatment in the local hospital. The organization believes children heal faster when their families are with them and 90% of hospital leaders believe that Ronald McDonald Houses play a significant and important role in family-centered care.

“We are ecstatic to be associated with the Curtis Glencross Invitational Charity Roughstock Rodeo and Poker event and Ronald McDonald House Charities® Central Alberta for a fourth year. We share the common goal of giving central Alberta kids and their family hope and dreams through access to programs and services they deserve,” said Tim Leer, Executive Director of the Hockey Alberta Foundation. “Curtis has demonstrated great leadership with this initiative and we’re proud to be connected with a great Alberta athlete and person, as well as a great charity like Ronald McDonald House.”

Since the creation of the Every Kid Every Community, more than $220,000 has been distributed to groups focused on creating access to hockey across Alberta. More importantly, the funds have increased access to hockey in 36 communities and for more than 3,500 kids.

The Every Kid Every Community program is an important organization for the Curtis Glencross & Friends Foundation, said Kelsey Angeltvedt, the Foundation’s director.

“Curtis and I developed a bond as kids growing up that started with sports, mainly hockey and we both think every kid should have that same opportunity,” said Angeltvedt. “Hopefully the funds will not only allow all kids to enjoy the game but create some friendships that will last long after the ice goes out each spring.”

The ‘sponsor only’ poker event was enjoyed by 200 local supporters along with NHL and Rodeo celebrity guests at the Sheraton Hotel in Red Deer. Representing Clean Harbors, Mark Spencer was crowned this year’s poker champion.

Day two’s rodeo event took place at Daines Rodeo Ranch north of Innisfail. Rainy weather did not keep the stands from being filled to watch some of the best cowboys that Western Canada has to offer.

“Despite Mother Nature’s plans, prayers were answered, rain paused and comments from attendees proved nothing but an amazing evening” said Glencross.

When asked what the public can expect for next year, Angeltvedt replied “Year 5. One thing I can guarantee is great cowboys, great people and a great cause… And hopefully some sunshine??”

Click Here to view photos of the 2015 Glencross Cheque Presentation.