The Pat Porter Active Living Centre (PPALC) in Steinbach has become much more than just a place for activities—it's a gathering spot where community members, young and old, come together.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the centre’s success has been the connection with Steinbach Pistons players, who volunteer their time and form deep relationships with the people who visit the centre.
Audrey Harder, the Executive Director of the PPALC, shared some of the most rewarding moments she's witnessed at the centre recently.
“A lot of the time, the Pistons' experiences will be a big highlight for us,” she said. “These young men come in as volunteers thinking they’re just helping out, but they become like grandsons, sons, and friends to the people here.”
Harder reflected on the sense of community at the centre, explaining how the Pistons players have become an integral part of the lives of the members.
“They’re not just coming to volunteer; they’re supporting each other through both the tough times and the celebrations. After a game, the coffee corner is twice as full as usual because people want to know how the game went and check in with their ‘grandkids’—the Pistons players.”
The relationships formed between the players and the visitors go beyond casual friendships. The Pistons players have been there for people during difficult times, including attending funerals and offering comfort to those who have lost loved ones.
“It’s about being an extended family for everyone. We make sure people feel safe and welcome, and that they have the extra support they need.”
The Pat Porter has created a special space for the Pistons players, too. Harder shared that it’s not just about the work being done at the centre, but the companionship and social opportunities that are the real priority.
“Health and family first,” Harder said. “If the boys want to sit down and play cards with someone, that’s what matters most. Work comes second.”
Meanwhile, for the Pistons players, many of whom had no previous connection to the community before joining, now feel like they’ve found a second home at the Pat Porter, and our members make them feel like family.
“They know the game schedule, and ask when they’re coming in. We’ve even had people who never went to a hockey game before, but now they’re looking at getting season tickets—not just for the hockey, but because that’s where they found a community.”
Harder’s passion for bringing the Pistons into the fold of the Pat Porter community came from her own experience as a season ticket holder.
“I knew they were looking for volunteer opportunities, and I saw the benefit of that,” she said. “So I thought, why not? We’re always looking for volunteers.”
Pat Porter and the Pistons make for a successful partnership
The partnership has been a success far beyond what Harder initially expected.
“It took about a year for it to get started, but once it did, I was amazed by how well it went. The boys commit to volunteering three days a week and are always helping out. It’s been huge for us, and for them, too—they’re giving back to the community, and the respect is mutual.”
But like any volunteer experience, the season eventually comes to an end. Harder admits it’s a bittersweet time of year when the players have to say goodbye for the summer.
“It’s a tough time, but it’s not so much a goodbye as it is a ‘see you later,’” she explained. “We’ve had players come back to visit, and they stay in touch with people here. It’s really nice to see that.”
One story that stands out for Harder is the relationship between a Pistons player and a regular visitor named Jim Lohr.
Jim became very close to the team, even attending hockey games with their support. When Jim became unwell, the Pistons players made sure to visit him, bringing gifts and lifting his spirits.
“They were there for him, even when he moved into a care home,” Harder recalled.
“Then, when Jim passed away, the Pistons players were asked to be honorary pallbearers at his funeral. It’s just a beautiful example of the bonds they’ve formed.”
Pat Porter endorsed by Pistons Head Coach
Meanwhile, Steinbach Pistons Head Coach Paul Dyck speaks highly of the Pat Porter Active Living Centre as a place for his players to volunteer.
"When a season comes to an end, I have exit interviews with each of the players, and what I love about those moments is hearing the players talk about the friendships they’ve made, not just with their teammates but also with their billet families. Those relationships mean a lot to them. It’s great to see how these guys have grown, not just as players, but as people. The bonds they’ve made go beyond the rink."
Dyck continues, "Especially with staff and members here at the Pat Porter. They’ve built some pretty incredible relationships with the seniors here. The players have spent time with them, and that’s something they’ll never forget. Some of the players have attended funerals, supported people when they’ve lost loved ones. It’s tough for young people to go through, but they’re learning some really important life lessons."
Although the Pistons season ended sooner than anticipated, Dyck says, "I’m really proud of the guys, and while we didn’t win as many games as we wanted at the end of the season, it’s good to remember there’s more to it than just the game. We’re all part of something bigger here, and I’m grateful to be part of it."
What's ahead for the Pat Porter?
Though the Steinbach Pistons players have gone to their hometowns for the summer, the Pat Porter looks forward to an exciting season ahead, with events like Mother’s Day activities, a painting class, and more.
Harder is also excited about the upcoming campaign for a new building addition at the centre, which will help continue their mission of creating a welcoming space for all.
“Every time I look around, I just smile,” she said. “It’s amazing to watch people connect, build relationships, and become a true family here.”
The Pat Porter Active Living Centre isn’t just a place—it’s a community, where everyone, from the youngest volunteers to the oldest members, finds support, friendship, and a sense of belonging.
*With files from Carly Koop
*In the photo gallery below are the eight graduating Steinbach Pistons players from the 2024-25 season. Photos taken at the Pistons Farewell and Awards evening held at the Pat Porter on April 3, 2025.
#18 - Brayden Barnett
#4 - Noah Szabo
#35 - Christian Green
#20 - Jamie Fuchs
#6 - Matthew Munro
#21 - Sam Zagari
#3 - Spencer Penner
#26 - Ty Paisley