The offensive lineman has emerged as a champion for the Hockomock YMCA’s Integration Initiative
The Hockomock Area YMCA announced that Nate Solder, offensive tackle for the New England Patriots, will be the recipient of 2014 Legends Award at the 9th annual Legends Ball. The announcement was made at the YMCA’s Invensys Foxboro Branch Kraft Family Center. Solder was on hand to acknowledge the honor that will recognize his commitment and passion to the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Integration Initiative. Ed Hurley, President of the Hockomock Area YMCA, said, “Nate is one of the most caring and genuine individuals I have ever met. He is a champion of our Y and its programs and we are proud to honor him with this award.”
Ed continued, “Nate always takes time out of his busy schedule to support our programs and the kids light up when he is around.”
On receiving this recognition Solder remarked, “The Hockomock Area YMCA means a great deal to me and my wife. One of my mottos is be the change you’d like to see in the world and the Y helps me to do that.” Former Legends Award Honoree and New England Patriot Hall of Famer Steve Grogan was part of the announcement and his presence meant a lot to Solder. “Steve’s here just the same reason as I’m here, to serve the community. I am honored and humbled to be associated the past honorees,” said Solder. Past honorees have been Peter Brock, Rick and Dick Hoyt, Matt Light, Joe Andruzzi, Steve Grogan and Andre Tippett. Nate was surrounded by members of the Y’s Unified Flag Football team and he and Grogan participated in their practice. Commented Solder, “The Integration Initiative has a great mission and philosophy. The program provides a great opportunity for kids to be kids.”
The 9th Annual Legends Ball will take place on November 18, 2014 at Lake Pearl Luciano’s in Wrentham, MA. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Integration Initiative, established in 2004, which provides opportunities for children with special needs to participate in YMCA programs and activities alongside their typically-developing peers. The program improves social skills, builds self-esteem, increases physical activity and independence, and enhances mutual respect among people of all abilities. Since its inception, the Integration Initiative served over 700 families by connecting children with special needs and their families to the community at large by removing barriers to inclusion.
Nate, after a distinguished career at the University of Colorado was drafted in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft by the New England Patriots. Throughout his life he has been involved in many community service projects including; coaching youth basketball, serving as a student aide and mentor at Buena Vista Elementary School, volunteering in Guatemala at an orphanage, rebuilding a town in Italy after a devastating earthquake, and in college he was a part of the “Read with the Buffs” and “Buffalo Hugs” programs.
Sports fans and friends of the Hockomock Area YMCA who are interested in attending the 2014 Legends Ball may contact Peter Waisgerber at 508-643-5251, or can purchase tickets online at: www.Hockymca.org
The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.
With over 31,000 members, half under the age of 18, the YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve.
The Y is for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility.
