Chaffee County, CO (September 2024) – A scholarship fund has been established at Collegiate Peaks Bank to support the efforts of The Ramps and Alleys Clubhouse, a nonprofit organization established to provide a safe and fun place for the youth of Chaffee County to hang out. The Ramps and Alleys Clubhouse shares a building with a skate shop at 645 E. Rainbow Blvd. in Salida and offers a common area and community space for kids of all ages to paint, play games, meet new friends on and around a skate area and outdoor skate ramp.

The Clubhouse has partnered with local programs such as the Boys and Girls Club of Chaffee County, elevateHer, Alpine Achievers and the Family Youth Initiatives. The programming and activities are free of charge through donations, grants, fundraisers and other community support, including scholarship opportunities.

There are currently two options to apply for youth scholarships, including the Junior Roller Derby Scholarships and the Izan Wheeler Youth Sports Memorial Scholarship.

Collegiate Peaks Bank has made a $1,000 donation of its own to the Izan Wheeler Sports Memorial Scholarship which was established by the Ark Valley High Rollers to honor Izan who passed away in December 23 at the age of nineteen. This scholarship is intended to provide financial assistance to participants in youth sports between the ages of 12-18. This can include any sport, whether it is an organized sport/league or for personal development in recreation such as skateboarding, biking, rock climbing, kayaking, skiing, and more. All levels/abilities are encouraged to apply.

Examples of financial assistance that are intended to help with but are not limited to: new equipment, participation fees, competition fees, coached lessons, camps and travel expenses.

More information about the scholarships and the activities and programming at The Clubhouse is available at www.rampsandalleys.com.