Coyotes Charities, the team's new foundation, was formed as a result of the team's new ownership group led by Valley Developer Steve Ellman and Hockey Legend Wayne Gretzky just one short year ago.

The staff of Coyotes Charities were hard at work raising funds during the 2001 - 02 Season beginning in October where more than 600 fans went Behind the Coyotes, for the 2001 Coyotes Face Off Luncheon, a parody of the ever-popular VH1 show, Behind the Music.

Then in December, the Coyotes headed for the green hills of Kierland Golf Course for the 2001 Coyotes Charities Golf Classic.

In January, the entire team spent the day with more than 10,000 fans signing autographs and taking photos at the Phoenix Zoo for the 2002 Coyotes Family Festival presented by VIAD.

And, rounding out the season, in March, all players, coaches and Managing Partner Wayne Gretzky spent the evening with close to 600 guests as they went back in time to the Roaring 20's for the 2002 Coyotes Charities Gala, Speakeasy on Grant Street.

So far, Coyotes Charities has raised nearly $600,000 in support of youth and adult education programs, prevention and wellness programs and the cultural arts throughout Arizona.

A big part of that success is because of your continued support. Thank you for helping us to enhance the quality of life for people in Arizona. We look forward to having you as our guest again this season.

For more information on Coyotes Charities events and programs, call our hotline at .