June 25, 2024 — While Florida Panthers Captain Aleksander “Sasha” Barkov was leading his team to a Stanley Cup championship, he was also making a difference off the ice with his #BarkovScores4JoeD philanthropic campaign for Joe DiMaggioChildren’s Hospital Foundation.
Barkov donates $1,600 for each goal he scores and $800 for each he assists on during the regular season and playoffs. He also provides a suite at each Panthers home game for use by those connected to the hospital.
Through five seasons (two of them impacted by COVID-19) of #BarkovScores4JoeD, the captain has committed $420,000 to support kids, families, and programs at the pediatric facility in Hollywood. The NHL star’s dollars have aided the recent expansion of the children’s hospital, including its new child life zone, where he regularly interacts with patients, playing games, taking photos, and signing autographs.
“I really value my partnership with Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and am very happy they are part of the Florida Panthers family,” said Barkov, a two-time Frank J. Selke Trophy winner as the best defensive forward in the league. “I’m very proud to witness the expansion of the hospital, and the ability this amazing team of professionals now have to provide even more complex care to the South Florida community and beyond.”
In addition to his Selke trophies, Barkov has also won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the NHL player that combines sportsmanship, gentlemanly conduct, and a high standard of playing ability. He was the second overall pick in the 2013 draft and has played his entire NHL career for the Panthers.
Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital is one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals, offering a comprehensive scope of healthcare services and programs in a caring, compassionate setting designed specifically for children. A level one trauma center based that is part of the Hollywood-based Memorial Healthcare System, it combines advanced technology, the expertise of board-certified specialists, and a patient and family-centered approach to heal the body, mind, and spirit.
The hospital’s nonprofit foundation focuses on philanthropy to positively impact patients, families, and underwrite programs, facilities, and equipment that support the pediatric facility’s mission.
