April 12, 2025 – Detroit, MI – The energy was high and the ice was electric at the ESH Ice Arena as community members, hockey legends, and local businesses came together for Pucks for a Purpose—a spirited charity hockey game co-sponsored by Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and Saros Real Estate.

The event brought together NHL alumni, local leaders, and dedicated fans to raise funds and awareness for two impactful organizations: The Jamie Daniels Foundation and The Headstrong Project. The evening wasn’t just about goals and glory—it was about community, compassion, and action.

“We are at Pucks for a Purpose, a fantastic event for two fantastic causes,” said Tony Gatliff, SVP of Mortgage Lending and Corporate Outreach at Mutual of Omaha Mortgage. “The Jamie Daniels Foundation and The Headstrong Project both do great things… and we’ve got former NHL greats out here to support these amazing causes.”

That roster of hockey legends included Danny DeKeyser, Derian Hatcher, Jason Woolley, and Pat Peake, who suited up for the game in support of the causes.

Supporting Young Lives: The Jamie Daniels Foundation

The Jamie Daniels Foundation, founded by Lisa Daniels-Goldman and Detroit Red Wings announcer Ken Daniels in memory of his son, is dedicated to preventing substance use disorder among children, teens, and young adults. The Foundation works to reduce stigma, support recovery, and provide critical education and advocacy to protect young people and their families from the devastating impact of addiction.

“It’s so wonderful that, along with Tony Gatliff, they decided to send some funds to The Jamie Daniels Foundation to help what we do with substance use disorder,” Daniels shared. “We can’t be more pleased with that.”

Through partnerships with community organizations and support for legislative change, the Foundation empowers families and delivers real, lasting solutions in the ongoing fight against the drug epidemic.

Learn more at jamiedanielsfoundation.org.

Expanding Access to Mental Health: The Headstrong Project

The Headstrong Project is a national nonprofit organization that provides confidential, barrier-free, and stigma-free treatment for veterans, service members, and their families struggling with PTSD and trauma-related challenges.

Founded by veterans in 2012, Headstrong has created one of the most comprehensive mental health treatment programs in the nation, rooted in evidence-based practices and collaborative care. Services are available regardless of service era or discharge status.

“For The Headstrong Project specifically, this is a really big deal,” said Ned Freeze, Director of Corporate Partnerships. “We are launching services in Michigan this year, and to be part of an event here in Detroit as we bring services to local military veterans is just incredible.”

Headstrong is committed to ensuring that every veteran who seeks help receives it—with dignity, without delay, and without stigma.

To learn more, visit theheadstrongproject.org.

A Night to Remember

“Pucks for a Purpose matters because you’re putting coins in the coffers of these amazing charities that can always use money,” Gatliff said. “And we’re raising awareness for veterans with PTSD and adolescents with substance use disorder. Absolutely fantastic event, and we’re very appreciative of everyone coming out.”

With every cheer from the stands and every goal on the ice, Pucks for a Purpose demonstrated what’s possible when a community comes together in service of a greater mission. Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and Saros Real Estate were proud to help make the event a reality—and even prouder to stand alongside the heroes and advocates driving real change.