New Jersey Devils Annual Community Day a Hit Once Again

Newark Day Center

It was a sunny day in Newark on Wednesday as Bryce Salvador, consultant Jonathan Price, and members of the New Jersey Devils organization played Santa at the Newark Day Center.  All of the children from the Early Childhood program were able to meet the Devils’ alum. They also received gifts the Devils staff purchased earlier to brighten their holiday.  This was just one of the events that were part of the New Jersey Devils Annual Community Day.

The kids were smiling ear-to-ear, taking pictures and getting a lesson in hockey equipment during the Devils visit.  I got to speak to both Price and Salvador about what these events mean to them,

“I wish we were doing it more because it such a pleasure to spread some joy and I wish the holidays were longer than just the holidays,” said Price

Salvador, a former Devils captain, added, “It’s nice to be able to be active in the community and just be engaged with everyone who supports the devils, and those who don’t.  It’s just important this time of year to help out in whatever you can whether it’s just coming to say hi or being able to distribute gifts to some kids it goes a long way.”

Former NJ Devils captain Bryce Salvador takes a photo with children at the Newark Day Center on Dec. 20, 2017 (Photo by Kelly Kademian)

Devils Annual Community Day

The New Jersey Devils are big supporters of their home city.  They organize events throughout the year and contribute a great deal to fostering a hockey culture in Newark.  Although the Devils organization is long-time supporters of the Newark residents, they believe in giving back to all of NJ. To the Devils, it is not just about giving back the community around the arena.

The organization also emphasizes they are New Jersey’s only professional sports team as their NFL cousins play under the NY moniker.  That is why every year on their Community Day they spend time visiting hospitals and community centers around the Garden State.  This tradition dates back to their arrival on the east coast 35 years ago.