Year One. Year 18.

Today marks the 1st anniversary of The #HT40 Foundation on the day HT40 would have turned 18.

It’s impossible to say where Hayden would be today, what he would have accomplished or continue to achieve.

But with absolute certainty, we know he would have done what he always did, which is simply be a hand of kindness, inspiration, and support on our shoulders.

A small act that makes a big impact.

Through The #HT40 Foundation and The Shoulder Check, we’re on a mission to make more of those small actions, making ever greater impact.

Our inaugural Shoulder Check Showcase this past August brought thousands together to share in that experience.

Since that day we’ve worked to inspire people to Make Contact with one another with the support of NHL clubs all the way through to Youth programs. At schools and across campuses.

Tomorrow we’ll be with the Washington Capitals, who will be featuring the Shoulder Check in their programing for the day, as they work to bring awareness to mental health and wellness through their participation in the NHL’s Hockey Talks program.

In the year ahead we’ll continue building connections with programs big and small, with brands and thought leaders, creating and launching new ways to help people Make Contact with one another. At the rink, and well beyond it.

Because we might not always know who might need a hand, but we all have a hand to give.

That’s how Hayden lives on with all of us. Through every small act that adds to the impact we’re all making. Together.

#HT40

@theshouldercheck