Skate for Fitness 2021 Event

On July 25th, 2021, as part of my Girl Scout Gold Award, I organized and hosted the first Skate for Fitness 2021 event at my home rink, Ice Den Chandler, in Arizona. The event consisted of a free skating lesson, rental skates, and exhibition performance that showcased programs of figure skaters at my rink. This event was specifically designed for the youth, ages 5-17, with the purpose of battling the growing amount of inactivity among kids and teens, which could lead to health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.  My goal was to highlight the health benefits of the sport of skating through the various programs offered at Ice Den Chandler, such as the Learn to Skate, Solo Ice Dance, and Synchronized Skating programs. Over 70 kids showed up to participate in the free lesson along with their families and friends, for a total attendance of about 300 people. Additionally, 22 skaters volunteered to perform in the exhibition, which included ice dance, freeskate, and showcase program performances. One of our synchronized skating teams, Affinity, performed as well. Approximately, 30 volunteers, which included my Girls Scout Troop 1204, figure skaters, and coaches from Ice Den Chandler came to help with registration, getting the kids' skates on properly, and teaching the lesson.  At the end of the event, I asked the public skaters to write down one thing they learned from the event; many responded with information I stated during my speech or a new trick they learned during the lesson. I am very grateful for the coaches, Ice Den Chandler, skaters who participated in the exhibition, volunteers, and my Girl Scout Troop for making the Skate for Fitness event possible. All in all, the event was a great way for the public to make new friends in addition to learning about skating and its numerous benefits.