A nonprofit gym that offers gymnastics and sports classes for children with disabilities is back in action after closing for renovations.
Balance 180, located at 6527 NW 18th Drive, underwent renovations in early June after the cheerleading company that originally occupied the building moved out.
The organization’s co-founder and director Krista Vandenborne said about 70 volunteers helped with the renovations. They cleaned and painted and added a reception desk, colorful cubbies and updated equipment.
The renovations cost $3,500, which was funded through donations.
“I think what I’m most excited about is not anything specific but the fact that we had the community come together and do something so generous for all the kids,” said Vandenborne.
The gym offers eight classes to children of all abilities and backgrounds. One class for those with physical and mental disabilities prepares participants for the Special Olympics. It focuses on kicking, rolling, jumping and throwing.
Balance 180’s co-founder and current president, Carsten Schmalfuss, said the goal is to teach kids to balance sports with life.
“I thought that this was a great cause that needed support, so here I am and here we are, all of us,” Schmalfuss said.
Schmalfuss said there are more than 100 volunteers who work at the gym, and many of them are students.
Julie Walter, a 16-year-old Buchholz High School junior and Vandenborne’s daughter, volunteers with Balance 180. Walter said the organization stands out because it’s different than the competitive gymnastics gyms she grew up in.
“It’s just really homey,” she said. “There’s a family vibe, and everyone is really happy.”
[A version of this story ran on page 4 on 11/1/2014]
