Amanda Forrester / news@whmi.com

Howell Challenge Camp founder Sarah Dunkel-Jackson has been named as the 2025 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award presented by Discover U.S. winner.

The award recognizes “individuals who use hockey to build inclusive and inspiring communities,” according to the press release.

Dunkel-Jackson was chosen due to her work creating the camp, a summer program that is specifically designed to allow children with intellectual and developmental disabilities to play hockey. The program matches participants with buddies to help them learn the sport, and has adaptive equipment to meet their needs.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to highlight Hockey Challenge Camp because our community really came together to make sports more accessible,” Dunkel-Jackson said after receiving the award during Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals. “I hope other communities will partner and do the same for individuals with disabilities in their community. Sports are for everyone!”

Dunkel-Jackson told WHMI her son was very excited to go out to Edmonton and see a Stanley Cup Finals game. She added that Oilers fans are dedicated to their team, even though the game didn’t end the way they probably hoped it would.

The award includes a $25,000 grant that she chose to donate to The Arc Livingston. The funds will be used to expand the Hockey Challenge Camp and support other inclusive athletic opportunities, including adaptive baseball.

“We are beyond proud of Sarah and honored to partner with her in this work,” Laura Sauer, Executive Director of The Arc Livingston, said. “This award is not just a win for Sarah, but for every child who now gets to be part of a team, make friends and feel like they belong.”

(photo credit: The Arc Livingston)