FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2023
CONTACT:
Norm Sterzenbach, 319-431-4045, norm@gpsimpact.com
SKATE DSM TO CONTINUE PROGRAM TO GIVE FREE SKATEBOARDS TO KIDS
The “GET ON BOARD PROJECT” Will Hand Out up to 300 Free Skateboards and Helmets to Central Iowa Kids in 2023 Program
Des Moines, IA – Skate DSM announced today it will continue their hugely successful “Get on Board Project” in 2023. The program will hand out up to 300 free, quality skateboards, helmets, and skateboard instruction to eligible Des Moines-area kids in grades K-8.
“We built the greatest skatepark in the world, now we want to do everything we can to ensure local kids have the tools they need to skate it,” said Norm Sterzenbach, president of Skate DSM. “The ‘Get on Board Project’ is the first of its kind and further puts Iowa front and center on the national skateboarding map.”
Eligible students, those enrolled in grades K-8 in Polk, Dallas and Warren counties can apply online at SkateDSM.org/GetOnBoard. Equipment will be distributed to recipients at events through the spring, summer, and fall of 2023. Kids who applied for the program in 2022 but who were not awarded equipment, may apply again for consideration.
Funding for the program was provided by generous community sponsors led by Virginia Lauridsen. “It’s been wonderful to see the growth of the skating scene here in Des Moines and so many kids getting on skateboards for the first time,” said Virginia Lauridsen. “The new ‘Get on Board Project’ will help remove barriers that may exist for future skaters by getting them the equipment they need to give it a try. I’m pleased to support the program and grateful to all who have helped contribute to make it possible.”
In 2022, we had nearly 1300 applications and over five events – including a very cool giveaway event at the Dew Tour! – and distributed 469 skateboards and helmets to kids in our community in need.
Skateboarding is a unique activity because it combines extreme physical exertion with precise muscle coordination and balance. It’s a great activity for kids’ physical and mental health. Skateboarding also encourages kids to interact with one another and builds vital social and interpersonal skills.
For more information or to apply for the program go to: SkateDSM.org/GetOnBoard.
About Skate DSM
Skate DSM is a volunteer-led 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to growing and supporting the skateboarding community in Des Moines. In addition to the Get on Board Project, Skate DSM hosts Push Start clinics and after-school programs to introduce kids to skateboarding by teaching them the fundamentals, and hosts events like the Des Moines Streetstyle Open throughout the metro to keep the community stoked on skateboarding.
###
