(PHILADELPHIA, PA - February 17, 2010) - In recognition of President’s Day and in honor of Black History Month, a group of 24 Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation participants explored African American heritage during a special tour of the National Constitution Center.

During the month of February, the National Constitution Center is featuring a series of special events during that highlight the influence of African Americans on our nation’s history.

ESYHF students began their tour in the Center’s Founders Room where they were able to view life size bronze statues of our founding fathers.

Moving on from the Founders Room, students examined the impact of African Americans in the United States by learning about the history of the Underground Railroad to the fight for equality in the 1960s and finally, the election of President Barack Obama.

Other highlights of the tour included viewing items such as a vest worn by Abraham Lincoln, a robe warn by Sandra Day O’Connor and a signed copy of a campaign speech given by President Obama in Philadelphia during his run to the White House in 2008.

After eating lunch, ESYHF guests played a trivia game that included questions relating to United States history. Those students who correctly answered the questions were awarded with posters.

The day concluded with students exploring select exhibits of their choice. Before leaving the National Constitution Center, participants received a personal copy of the U.S. Constitution.

The mission of the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation is to use the sport of hockey to help educate young people to succeed in the game of life. The program incorporates on-ice and off-ice activities, stressing citizenship, academics, and life skills. ESYHF services are targeted for boys and girls who otherwise would not have the opportunity to learn to skate or to play ice hockey. The Foundation provides equipment, ice time, and experienced coaching at no cost.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010