BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – On Monday, the Bridgeport Islanders announced the continuation and growth of their “Nonprofit of the Night” initiative. The program, sponsored by Webster Bank, has raised over $75,000 for local organizations around Bridgeport since its inception in 2021.
“We are committed to making our communities a safer, happier and healthier place,” Bridgeport Islanders Community Engagement Manger Sam Provost said. “This program gives nonprofits a major spotlight to amplify their message and mission to thousands of fans.”
The Nonprofit of the Night program, presented by Webster Bank, is available for all home games during the 2023-24 Bridgeport Islanders season. Community groups can raise awareness and funds for their cause while sharing appreciation with their volunteers, staff, and donors.
“The goal for our nonprofit partners is to create a new audience of passionate supporters that stay engaged with their mission beyond the walls of Total Mortgage Arena, while providing a premier gameday experience,” Provost said. “This program is just one avenue for our organization to recognize the amazing work being accomplished in Connecticut. Hockey is one minor detail in this partnership.”
Gameday fundraisers include running the 50/50 raffle, hosting the popular “Chuck-A-Puck” promotion, and jersey raffles.
Nonprofit of the Night Benefits
In addition to the funds and increased awareness, participating nonprofits also have the opportunity to take part in some exciting and exclusive promotions:
- One (1) concourse table at the front entrance of Total Mortgage Arena to share information, provide giveaways, recruit volunteers, and promote upcoming events
- Prominent recognition on the video board, the team’s official social media accounts, an in-game public address announcement, and more
- Free parking for all guests on game day
- Free Bridgeport Islanders hat for all guests
- 15% discount on gameday concessions
- Post-game group photo on the ice
Previous Nonprofit of the Night participants shared their appreciation and praise of both the Islanders and their staff for the program:
“Working with the Islanders has truly been a blessing,” said Carmen Colon, Vice President of Bridgeport’s YMCA, which was a Nonprofit of the Night last October. “Their collaborative spirit is exceptional. After our first evening with the Islanders, Sam has continued to work with our program participants not only having them at their games but also bringing the Islanders to our facilities giving our children an experience of a lifetime.”
Masuk High School Robotics Club was another Nonprofit of the Night organization last season.
“Our Bridgeport Islanders fundraiser was a huge success for Masuk Robotics,” Group leader Kathleen Giordano said. “The Islanders’ staff provided support during every step of the event, including event planning, handled all the ticket sales, and were present on game day to assist with the 50/50 raffle and Chuck-A-Puck.”
Interested organizations are asked to contact Sam Provost at 203-345-4825 or samuel.provost@bridgeportislanders.com. There is a limit of one Nonprofit of the Night during each home game.
The initiative is reserved for nonprofit organizations, but corporate organizations are encouraged to sponsor a charity of their choice.
