Even without stepping on the ice, Vancouver Canuck Ryan Kesler is still finding a way to put his name to good use. The hockey star is featured in a new Public Service Announcement aimed at breaking the silence on children’s exposure to violence against women that has debuted to highlight the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence Campaign taking place November 25th – December 10th, 2012.
The BC Society of Transition Houses (BCSTH) was one of 15 local charities across North America that was a recipient of the popchips Game Changers Program, where local athletes including Ryan Kesler asked their fans, “How can we give back to our community?” As part of their submission, BCSTH asked Ryan to film a Public Service Announcement that spoke to children and youth exposed to violence against women. Ryan hosted an event in June where he filmed this announcement and gave back to his fans that have made him the sport hero he is today.
“The popchips Game Changers program provided me with the wonderful opportunity to be introduced to a charity that I have now become very fond of, and supportive of the work they do for my community,” said Ryan Kesler. “Kids and teens should never feel alone and have support when they need it”.
For more information on the “Love Doesn’t Hurt” Public Service Announcement and Children Who Witness Abuse Programs, visit the BCSTH website at www.bcsth.ca