Winnipeg Jets Honor Shelter Director as Community Hero

When Ang Braun got an email in January saying the Winnipeg Jets wanted to honor her, she almost ignored it. The executive director of Genesis House, a shelter in Winkler, Manitoba, thought it couldn't be real.

But on March 26, Braun found herself on the jumbotron at Canada Life Centre during the Jets game against the Colorado Avalanche. Thousands of fans cheered as she was recognized as a Jets Community Hero for her tireless work helping vulnerable women and families rebuild their lives.

Sandi Enns, Braun's longtime friend, nominated her for the honor. "She always wants the best for those clients that she serves," Enns said. "She's just a great person."

The recognition came with perks: complimentary game tickets for both Braun and Enns, a $100 food voucher, and on-camera recognition during a timeout. The jumbotron also displayed photos of Braun's community work, including her participation in Orange Shirt Day initiatives supporting Indigenous communities.

For Braun, the experience was doubly special. She had never attended an NHL game before and wasn't sure she'd enjoy it. She did.

"I actually didn't even really believe it," Braun said about the initial email. After her friend reached out to tell her about the nomination, she went back and found the message from Miranda at the Jets organization. "In the end, it was wonderful."

Why This Inspires

From the Jets staff to the fans around her, Braun said she was "treated well" throughout the evening. The woman who spends her days ensuring others feel valued and supported got to experience that same care herself.

Now she wants to pay it forward. Braun says she hopes to nominate someone else for the Jets Community Hero honor in the future, continuing the cycle of recognition for quiet champions.

Enns hopes the visibility will help Braun's ongoing mission. "I hope people keep supporting her hard work, and that she can achieve the dreams that she wants for these women and families, so that they can be successful in their new lives," she said.

Sometimes the people who give the most are the last ones expecting to receive anything back.