Duncan Keith gives back

NHL defenseman and former Penticton resident Duncan Keith has partnered with the OSNS Child and Youth Development Centre in Penticton to fund a new playground.

Keith, of the Chicago Blackhawks, created a charity in 2011 called Keith Relief. Keith Relief and OSNS are now working together on a three-year project that helps improve the lives of local children.

"I can't say enough, just how happy and proud I am to be a part of it, a small part of it," Keith said. "I see my son over there, he's been getting into the cookies already, it's been a lot of fun so far."

Next spring the The Duncan Keith Playground will open on the upper portion of the OSNS facility. The playground is meant to promote coordination, strength and muscle tone.

"The whole idea is to aid in the children's developments," he said. "Whether it's physical things or learning mentally."

Not only will outdoor facilities be built but each year, funds will be donated to OSNS families who are experiencing financial crisis in regards to the care of their children.   

Keith Relief is dedicated to alleviating the financial burden and emotional burdens of families and individuals dealing with medical situations.