$20,000 Goal Reached at the 13th Annual Youth Hockey Fights for Kids with Autism
13th annual Youth Hockey Fights for Kids with Autism Recap
Our annual event, Youth Hockey Fights for Kids with Autism was on January 25th, 2025 from noon – 9 pm at Wings West, 5076 Sports Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.
The 13th Annual Youth Hockey Fights for Kids with Autism event achieved its goal, raising over $20K to assist families with out-of-pocket expenses for the evidence-based therapy recommended for their child(ren) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, as well as for critical
program materials. Both are essential for individuals to realize their full potential and lead independent, vibrant lives.
Thank you to the generous event sponsors, businesses, individuals, and teams who provided prizes for Chuck-a-puck and items for the silent auction, as well as to those who made financial donations or won silent auction baskets. The event sponsors include Central Reach, Consumers Energy, Dorrance Ford, DTE, Hockey Services, Kingscott and Associates, Kalamazoo Optimist Hockey Association (KOHA), Rockwell Hockey, South Central High School Hockey League (SCHSHL), Wings Stadium Management Company, and The Ski Shop at Milham Park. This event began with a conversation 13 years ago that established the partnership with KOHA, SCHSHL (formerly Southwest Michigan High School Hockey League (SWMHSHL), and the Great Lakes Center for Autism Treatment and Research.
A huge thanks to SCHSHL, KOHA, WMU Stallions, the hockey families, and the amazing
committee team of caring, dedicated friends!
Committee Team
From left to right: Todd Hufford, Frank Noonan, Matt Schaeffer, Juli Goodling, Darci Stevens, Spring Waltke, and Brianne Tempe (not pictured: Jessica Wressel)
Frank Noonan presents a check to the team at the Great Lakes Center for Autism Treatment and Research, which is a program of Residential Opportunities, Inc. From left to right: Frank Noonan, Jennifer Thomas, Dr. Shenetta Coleman (CEO), Stefanie Beattie, Darci Stevens, and Jeremy Rafacz.
Mark your calendars for the 14th Annual Youth Hockey Fights for Kids with Autism event on Saturday, January 24, 2026.
Please email Hockeyfightsforautism@gmail.com or Darci Stevens at dstevens@resopp.org if you are interested in sponsoring the event or have questions.
