Keep Valarena Sk8 Land Rolling: Donate Now

Hi, I’m Andrew —some of you may know me online as GBPony. I’m reaching out to support my friends, Mike and Wendy, in their fight to save their beloved business. Here’s their story, and how you can be part of making a difference.

Valarena has been a beloved part of North Apollo, PA for an incredible 76 years—a true cornerstone of fun, family, and community. Since Mike and Wendy Vaughn took ownership in June 2022 and renamed it Valarena Sk8 Land, they’ve poured their hearts into preserving this legacy. They’ve worked tirelessly to keep the rink a safe, welcoming space where kids, families, and skaters of all ages can connect, grow, and thrive.

For me, Valarena Sk8 Land is more than just a skating rink—it’s become a sanctuary. My wife and I found something special here. In a time when we needed it most, skating brought us closer together. Week after week, we laugh, we skate, we reconnect. I still remember one of our first visits, barely able to stand on my skates, when Mike took the time to teach me. That kindness stuck with me. Since then, we’ve become part of an incredible skate family that has welcomed us with open arms.

Over the past several months, I’ve been volunteering at the rink and have seen firsthand how carefully and passionately Mike and Wendy run things. But despite their dedication, the reality is sobering: rising costs for insurance, music licensing, inventory, and much-needed maintenance are putting the future of Valarena Sk8 Land in jeopardy. If we lose this rink, we lose a piece of our community’s heart.

I’ve only been part of the skating world for a little over a year, but I’ve already seen the grief and nostalgia shared when rinks across the country shut their doors. This time, we have a chance to step in before that happens. Think of it like Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo—only this time, it’s real. We’re fighting to save our rink, our gathering place, our joy.

The funds raised through this campaign will go toward critical expenses and much-needed renovations to keep the doors open. If Valarena Sk8 Land has touched your life, or if you simply believe in preserving places that bring people together, please consider donating. Even just a few dollars from each member of the broader skate community can make a lasting difference.

Let’s show what a strong, united skate family can do. Let’s make sure Valarena Sk8 Land skates on.