AT A LOCAL ICE RINK, GIRLS TAKE WING

What can you build on a foundation of ice? More than you might think. Because every day, girls whose prospects would otherwise be limited are building strong bodies and minds, valuable life skills, self-esteem, and positive future prospects thanks to Figure Skating in Harlem.

In the discipline, determination and physical strength it requires, figure skating promotes qualities in young girls that will serve them throughout their lives. But the sport is largely inaccessible to many underprivileged youth, especially African-Americans and Latinas living in impoverished areas of New York City.

Discovering Their True Potential in Athletics and Academics

Since 1997, Figure Skating in Harlem (FSH) has brought the sport of ice skating to these underserved girls. FSH provides a multi-faceted program that includes academic, cultural and athletic components. Each season, the organization selects about 125 girls between 6 and 16 from Harlem area schools. Each student is supplied with equipment, attire, ice time, and professional instruction, as well as academic tutoring, counseling sessions, and mentoring. In return, each girl signs a Skater's Contract and commits both to skating and academic studies. Each must participate in all components of the program and maintain a B average in school.

In taking part in Figure Skating in Harlem programs, girls are given the opportunity to develop physically, emotionally and intellectually in a safe and supportive environment. The Catalog is proud to support these outstanding young women and to help FSH serve more of them.

"I learned to stop having low self-esteem. I love being on the ice because it makes me feel beautiful."

- ELIYAH, Age 12