Loraas paying it forward
After a day of classes on campus and working at his father’s company, Aaron Loraas (BA’01) would often lace up his skates and join friends for a game of hockey at Rutherford Rink.
By Lindsay RoyaleNow, more than a decade later, Aaron has traded in ice time to attend his daughters’ dance classes. “I’d love to still play, but it’s just too late in the evening!” Aaron says with a laugh.
His role as vice-president of Loraas keeps Aaron busy too, as the disposal service has evolved over the years. Established in 1965, the company started out as a small waste service in Saskatoon. It has since expanded to become one of the most advanced recycling and waste management services in Canada.
Aaron believes that the success of the company is due to the community.
“Loraas is customer-driven. As customers require different services from us, we had to adapt and meet those needs,” says Aaron. “It’s as straightforward as sitting down with someone, listening to their needs, and coming up with a solution.”
So, when the opportunity was presented to get involved with his alma mater’s Home Ice Campaign, Aaron was listening. The project aligns with Loraas’ two giving principles: grassroots and children.
“We like to be able to see results in Saskatoon,” says Aaron. Loraas takes pride in knowing that the multi-sport facility will provide 1500 hours of ice time annually to the Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association. Children will benefit from the opportunity to enjoy the sport and sportsmanship with their fellow teammates and fans right here in Saskatoon.
In addition, Loraas is excited for Huskies athletes to be able to showcase their talents in a facility that matches their performance level. The pairing of the two groups is a powerful combination, providing mentorship for youth from hard-working U of S student athletes.
“The combination of the two parties being there will motivate young children to go to university and play for Huskies one day,” Aaron says. “I like that tie-in.”