Atkinson also feels fortunate for the platform to give back.
During the pandemic, Atkinson joined a platform which allows fans the opportunity to hire athletes, actors, musicians, artists and other celebrities to create personalized video messages for any occasion.
Fans paid a fee for videos, but Atkinson said that 100% of the proceeds go towards local restaurants and business that need help during the pandemic.
“It’s actually been pretty fun, just to interact with all different sorts of people and ages,” Atkinson said. “It has been anywhere from a 4-year-old, who I did a video for a Christmas present, to a 77-year-old guy, who is still skating on a daily basis. It’s a way for me to interact with the fans where they typically wouldn’t get the opportunity to know you on a more personal level.”
Atkinson said that he’s interacted with kids who are struggling because their youth sports seasons were canceled or postponed because of the pandemic. Atkinson is also glad to help boost parents’ morale, too during this difficult time.
“Sometimes, they want me to kind of give their kids a pep talk,” Atkinson said. “It’s fun knowing that something I say might hit home or put someone in a better state of mind because everyone is struggling one way or another. Everyone has been affected by this pandemic and if I can put a smile on a face, that’s all that matters.”
All proceeds return to the community, and Atkinson recently paid it forward with a $4,000 check to local businesses. Interested persons can also visit his website and purchase apparel with 100% of the proceeds also going to the city of Columbus.
“We’re continuing to raise money,” Atkinson said. “I think people like to jump on board knowing that their dollar is going somewhere meaningful.”
The Blue Jackets are scheduled to open their season Jan. 14 at Nashville. Atkinson is excited for his return to the ice, but he also wants to continue to give back throughout the season.
“People want something to cheer about, and to look forward to, and being able to watch our games on a nightly basis, I think it can clear their mind off of what’s going on,” Atkinson said. “A big thank you goes out to the fans because without their support, I wouldn’t be able to do what I’m doing right now.”
Story from Red Line Editorial, Inc.
