By: Maha Khan
What started as a small act of community spirit in Virginia has grown into a powerful North American movement that unites hockey players, families, and cancer advocates under one mission: to make every save count, on and off the ice.
“The event started with just 28 goalies from the Ashburn Xtreme,” recalls Hopewell, now Executive Director of October Saves. “It was such a success that the following year, we invited the Howard Huskies to participate. That expansion marked the beginning of something much larger.”
Since then, October Saves has transformed into a continent-wide initiative that engages thousands of ice hockey goalies each year in a collective effort to fund cancer research and care. Each October, aligning with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, goalies of all ages participate by collecting pledges for every save they make during the month. From youth leagues to adult teams, this campaign has turned routine games into acts of generosity.
Saving Goals, Fueling Progress
For participants, particularly the younger ones, involvement in October Saves extends far beyond recording statistics. The program connects the fast-paced intensity of ice hockey with a deep sense of purpose, bridging personal athletic achievement with community impact.
“One of the valuable aspects is seeing how participants become more engaged with their communities,” says Kerry Smith, Director of Advocacy. “They return each year with a sense of purpose and pride.”
October Saves doesn’t stop at fundraising. To help participants better understand the real-world outcomes of their efforts, fundraisers are given opportunities to engage directly with hospitals and research institutions supported by the initiative. Visits to places like the Inova Schar Cancer Institute, along with its state-of-the-art mobile screening bus, enable young athletes to witness firsthand how their contributions are helping to improve detection, treatment, and outcomes for patients.
In one standout event, a group of young fundraisers had the chance to meet and interact with goaltenders from the Washington Capitals. A fireside chat and facility walkthrough created a shared experience between professional athletes and the youth, turning an ordinary evening into an unforgettable moment of inspiration.
“They see where their support is going,” says Hopewell. “That kind of firsthand understanding deepens their commitment and shows them the real power of what they’re doing.”
A $4.2 Million Milestone
Since its inception, October Saves has raised more than $4.2 million. These funds support a wide range of cancer-related programs, including research into new treatment methods, patient support services, and community screening efforts. Importantly, the organization is run almost entirely by volunteers, allowing the vast majority of funds to go directly toward these life-saving initiatives.
“This work reflects the progress being made in treatment options and access,” says Travis Johnson, Director of Finance and Gift Administration. “It’s about continually building toward better outcomes.”
Stories shared within the October Saves community show how this progress is already making a difference, from improved diagnoses to access to advanced therapies that weren’t available just a decade ago.
Developing Future Leaders
While the program’s primary mission is to fight cancer, it also serves another important role: developing young leaders. October Saves helps participants cultivate empathy, leadership, and social responsibility, qualities that serve them well far beyond the rink.
“These goalies aren’t just making saves, they’re learning how to drive change,” says Smith.
Participants often take the initiative beyond the program itself, leading community events, sharing their experiences, and encouraging others to join. It’s a cycle of giving and growth that’s producing a new generation of socially engaged athletes.
Looking Ahead
As October Saves looks toward the 2025 season, its goals remain both ambitious and grounded in community. The team behind the initiative continues to expand its reach, inviting goalies and hockey programs from across North America to join the movement.
“There’s tremendous potential to grow this initiative,” says Hopewell. “We look forward to welcoming more participants and amplifying the difference we can make together.”
To learn more or get involved, visit www.octobersaves.org.
