Ukrainian Basking Ridge Local Combines Passion For Hockey, Love For Ukraine To Raise Funds

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — As Russia continues to invade, proud Ukrainian American Mark Howansky of Basking Ridge couldn't just sit idly by. Combining his passion for hockey and love for Ukraine, Howansky is hosting a Skate For Ukraine fundraiser on Saturday.

Both Howansky and his wife Mary have strong ties to Ukraine. Both of their parents immigrated to America to escape Soviet politics and communism.

"They came to America for a better life, freedom, opportunity," Howansky told Patch.

Described as proud Ukrainians, Howansky said he and his wife both grew up in an active Ukrainian community and were very involved in Ukrainian churches, scouting, folk dancing and more.

"Both of us are basically spokespeople for Ukraine," said Howansky. "We never really forgot where we are from. We are proud Americans and blessed to be American but we have strong ancestral ties to Ukraine."

Currently, the Howanskys both have family still living in Ukraine.

"We have cousins in Ukraine. It's a horrible time. Luckily both of our families are on the western side and not on the active front," said Howansky.

Howansky went on to describe nearby bombings.

"In the west, we cross our fingers they haven't hit civilian targets," said Howansky. "Our families are OK and so far still safe."

When Russia began invading Ukraine, Howansky, who plays hockey in a men's league, talked with the captain of the NJ Kings team, Mike Perektsa, to come up with a fundraising opportunity surrounding hockey.

They decided to host the "Skate For Ukraine" event on Saturday at the Clary Anderson Arena, 41 Chestnut Street, Montclair.

The event includes:

• 5-6 p.m. Open Skate for all (free skate rentals)
• 6 p.m. Ceremony
• 6:15-8 p.m. Hockey Game between NJ Kings and NY Kozaks

Hockey players of all ages are encouraged to wear their jerseys for a group photo to be taken.

The event is free but monetary donations will be collected. Anyone can also make donations through a GoFundMe website set up for the cause. 100 percent of the collected funds will go directly to organizations working in Ukraine to protect and support the local population including:

• National Bank of Ukraine bank account for the needs of the army
• "Lvivskyy Lytsar” assistance to Ukrainian volunteer soldiers
• United Ukrainian American Relief Committee (UUARC) humanitarian aid to victims of war

Howansky's goal is to raise $100,000 for Ukraine. He has already raised $20,000 since the event went live.

For more information or to donate click here or the Facebook event page.

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