The Town Toyota Arena Youth Enrichment fund at the Community Foundation of NCW has awarded $5,600 to four schools in the Wenatchee School District. The grant will be shared equally by the After School Programs at Columbia Elementary, Mission View Elementary, Orchard Middle School, and Pioneer Middle School. A total of 60 students (15 from each school) will participate in a six-week long “Learn to Skate” program, which includes instruction and skate rental.

The mission of the After School Program is to provide enriching opportunities to academically struggling students. “Data shows that students who participate in enriching activities often show better academic performance, better social skills, increased school attendance, and increased school success” read a statement from the grant.

“We are thrilled to have the Arena Youth Enrichment fund at full fruition as it enables students to learn to skate, providing exercise and enrichment in their lives, while benefitting the arena, the community and the schools” said Jennifer Bushong, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Town Toyota Center. “These students will remember their skating lessons for generations to come. This program is truly a win-win-win for all involved.”

The Arena Youth Enrichment Grant is ongoing, with applications due by the 20th of each month. It is open to schools and/or 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that support youth activities and enrichment, this grant funds Town Toyota Center arena programs and activities such as skate classes, private rentals, show tickets, transportation services, equipment, and other skate classes provided by the center.