Senators Foundation cut ties with Sens: what this means for the Canadian hockey team

The Ottawa Senators find themselves yet again in deep water. This time, they are facing the possibility of their non-for profit charity organization leaving the Ottawa sports team. Founded in 1998, the organization was built in hopes of supporting local charities and community programs. The charity has boosted millions to help students, children and youth around Ottawa achieve their athletic hopes and ambitions.

Currently, the agreement between the hockey team and the charity allows the foundation to use the trademarks and logos of the Sens. This agreement is soon to expire on July 31, and according to the foundation, will most definitely NOT be renewed. According to reports from both parties, the foundation has refused the clubs request for proposals process, and will not comply. Now, senior management from the Foundation has stated they won't comply, and expect the two to part ways, come July 31st.

Charitable work in the future

The foundation highlights that the relationship with the Ottawa did, in fact, benefit the charity immensely within the organization, and throughout the community.  The foundation released this statement to CBC, "We have worked closely with the club, its players, alumni, staff, corporate partners and fans as well as the community at large, and together we have made a measurable difference in the lives of children and youth throughout the National Capital Region," its statement said. The foundation did not provide a reason for its departure but instead explained it would be much better for the foundation to part ways in order to continue its work. 

"In the meantime, we thank the Ottawa Senators for 22 years of partnership and the generosity of people and business throughout the region for supporting the work of the foundation resulting in thousands of game-changing opportunities for kids." Sens Foundation, CBC

Sens charity struggles

The senators have faced controversy in the past regarding how much of the organization's charity funds are actually being used for the cause. In 2016, Melnyk created The organ project, a not-for-profit organization with the goal of making sure Canadian's can receive the transplant they need. It wasn't until 2018, where the organization took in roughly $1 million, over 75% of this was spent through fundraising, while the other 25% was used for management and administration, leaving almost nothing left. Unlike the Sens Foundation, it appeared the Organ Project ran directly through Melnyk, since the organization didn't require a board of directors. Furthermore, the Organ Project shut down in 2019 with no plans of return.

Initially, it was said that the Senators Foundation would contribute $100,000 in donation to the Organ Project, but the board later decided against it. Although the future may currently be unknown, it appears as if the Ottawa Senators are going to have to decide on the necessary steps. The senators have no doubt been one of the most entertaining Canadian hockey teams in years past, granted, most of this entertainment comes at the expense of the teams quality. 

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