In the early years of Henrik’s career as a professional hockey player he had an impactful meeting with a family at the Ronald McDonald House in Gothenburg. This moment sparked a thought of maybe one day starting something of his own. In 2005 Henrik moved to NYC to play for the New York Rangers. He was instantly impressed by all the meaningful community work his teammates and friends were involved with. In 2009 Henrik became the spokesperson for the Garden of Dreams Foundation and in 2014 he and his wife, Therese, felt ready to start their own organization, the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation.
We asked Henrik & Therese to share some personal insight from their 5 year experience with HLF.
What has been the most rewarding aspect so far?
To see the impact we’ve had with all our community partners and also meeting families first hand, both at New York Presbyterian Children’s Hospitals and Garden of Dreams Foundation in New York and Ronald McDonald House in Sweden.
And the biggest challenge?
Time. The most precious thing we have is time – with my schedule, my family and friends, there is a lot going on. But with great help from all the people involved with HLF we make it work.
Favorite or most memorable moment with HLF?
Our Christmas visits at New York Presbyterian Children’s Hospital each year is something I always look forward to.
Quick thoughts on the future?
Our goal is to continue our work with our partners here in NYC and also overseas. Different projects are in the plans and we also look to keep growing our HLF Young Ambassador program, which has been amazing so far. Really happy with the work that has been done up to now, and I’m excited about the future.
Celebrating 5 Years of Impact
Charitable contributions year to date – over $1,000,000
The HLF Young Ambassador program was started in 2015 because of Henrik & Therese’s belief in the incredible power of young people to make a difference in the world. The program has touched the lives of 51 youth participants, over $80,000 has been raised to support HLF and its various community partners, more than 1,500 hours of community service have been completed and over 60 independent service projects all supporting HLF’s mission.
Ronald McDonald Barnfond (Children’s Fund)
9 separate projects at all 5 of the Ronald McDonald Houses in Sweden, ranging from new family rooms, family room & kitchen renovations, new outdoor gym, renovation of play/activity room and new relax/mindfulness room.
New York Presbyterian Children’s Hospitals
Child Life Program support, art therapist salary, furniture update in Child Life Playroom and newly constructed Progressive Care Unit.
Garden of Dreams Foundation
1,230 children and their families have enjoyed a game night from Henrik’s Crease.
Together For Better
School supplies for around 300 children per year for the past 5 years and a playground.
Today you can help the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation to continue our important work by donating. For every dollar you donate, your donation will be matched by Henrik & Therese for up to $30,000.
Thank you everyone for all the support over these past 5 years. We are excited for what lies ahead!
Team HLF
