NEW YORK – July 11, 2023 – NFP, a leading property and casualty broker, benefits consultant, wealth manager and retirement plan advisor, today announced a two-year partnership with Valor, an initiative focused on creating inclusive, community-based programs that build character, life skills and values through youth sports. Valor was founded by Pat LaFontaine, one of the greatest players in National Hockey League history and an ambassador for NFP’s Sports and Entertainment Group. NFP and Valor will collaborate to increase awareness of Valor programs designed to elevate the positive impact of youth sports participation on children, families and communities.
“Our partnership with Valor is another example of our commitment to working with organizations that share our values and passion for community impact,” said Doug Hammond, NFP’s chairman and CEO. “Pat’s character, expertise, relationships and vision will drive the success of this partnership and the adoption of Valor programs across the country. As a result, more kids will have more positive experiences with athletics, and the discipline, teamwork and respect they learn from participating in the programs will benefit them throughout their lives.”
The initial focus of the partnership is to increase awareness of Valor programs in communities across North America. To complement Valor, NFP, with LaFontaine’s involvement, recently launched the Sports Tuition Expense Protection (STEP) program. The STEP program is an innovative solution that provides reimbursement for activity fees for families when their children can’t participate due to injury or sickness of the player or a close family member, or if the family relocates.
“Valor is focused on empowering a better youth sports experience through a set of principles that align the interests of kids, families, clubs and communities,” said LaFontaine. “We’re very proud of this partnership with NFP and the values we share, and we’re excited to introduce our unique approach to organizations that believe in the opportunity to enhance the sports experience for kids.”
The NFP-Valor partnership continues LaFontaine’s relationship with NFP and its Sports and Entertainment Group. The group represents 170 years of combined experience, billions of dollars in sports and entertainment risk covered, and a commitment to executing on innovative, solution-focused results for clients. Current clients include professional sports organizations and leagues across North America, as well as numerous individual sports franchises and nearly 12,000 professional athletes. NFP also serves the governing body for collegiate athletics, as well as over 500 colleges and universities and more than 2,000 secondary/K-12 schools.