A Vision for Long-Term Change
Kadri’s foundation will partner with local nonprofits, including Denver Rescue Mission, Urban Peak, and Mile High Behavioral Healthcare, to ensure that the shelter not only provides beds, but becomes a hub for holistic support services.
“The Haven is not just about sheltering people — it’s about restoring lives,” said Marcus Eldridge, director of housing initiatives at Mile High Behavioral. “Nazem is helping us reimagine what’s possible when athletes step beyond the arena and into the heart of the community.”
Kadri emphasized the importance of treating homelessness as a systemic issue, not a moral failure. “These are our neighbors, our fellow human beings,” he said. “Everyone deserves a chance — not just to survive, but to rebuild and thrive.”
A Growing Legacy Off the Ice
Since joining the Colorado Avalanche in 2019, Kadri has become a fan favorite, not just for his clutch playoff performances — including helping lead the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2022 — but also for his community involvement and outspokenness on issues such as racial equality and mental health.
Last year, Kadri launched the Nazem Kadri Foundation Uplift Grant, providing scholarships and financial assistance to BIPOC students pursuing careers in healthcare and social work. The program has already helped dozens of students across Colorado.
Now, with the launch of The Haven, Kadri is taking a bold step into the realm of housing reform — an area often neglected by celebrity philanthropists due to its complexity and long-term nature.
A Ripple Effect Already Underway
Social media erupted with praise for Kadri, with thousands sharing stories of their own experiences with homelessness or poverty. Hashtags like #KadriCares, #TheHaven, and #HockeyWithHeart trended on X (formerly Twitter) within hours.
Teammates and fellow NHL players also chimed in. Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog posted, “Proud to call this guy a teammate and brother. Naz, you’re a true legend on and off the ice.” Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews, Kadri’s former teammate, added, “This is what leadership looks like. Respect.”
Even NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement, calling Kadri’s donation “a powerful reminder of the role professional athletes can play in building stronger, more compassionate communities.”
Looking Ahead
While Kadri remains focused on the Avalanche’s playoff push this season, he said this project is “just the beginning” of what he hopes will become a model for similar shelters in other cities. He hinted at potential expansion efforts through the Kadri Foundation, including outreach programs for at-risk youth and mental health advocacy.
“There’s a lot of work to do,” Kadri said, “but I believe in Denver. I believe in people. And I believe that when we care enough to act, we can change lives.”
As the crowd gave him a standing ovation at the end of the press conference, Kadri smiled humbly and walked off the stage — not as just a hockey hero, but as a champion for humanity.
For more updates on The Haven by Kadri and how you can support the initiative, visit NazemKadriFoundation.org
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