Frequently asked questions.

Who is eligible for a grant?

Skate Forward’s goal is to provide those who are unable to independently enroll in skating lessons the resources to do so. If you can attest that you would be otherwise unable to fund skating lessons and equipment needs, then you are eligible. We do not require prior experience. Advanced skaters (beyond typical group lessons) should contact us directly to assess eligibility. Age requirement: 3-18yrs

What does a grant provide?

We ensure that grant-receiving skaters do not have to pay for any equipment or lesson fees. What we provide is different for each skater; you may already have some equipment like jackets and helmets at home! We work with our skaters to understand what they need and cover 100% of the remaining costs.*

Do I need to have prior experience? 

No! We welcome both first-time skaters and skaters who have previously taken lessons but have since been unable to continue independently. Advanced skaters (beyond typical group lessons) should contact us directly to assess eligibility. 

Where are lessons?

We work primarily with the City of Edina and the Braemar Arena. Please contact us if you have interest in a program at a different rink in the metro area; we want to help!  

When are lessons? 

Registration is currently open for the fall session. Exact times differ based on current level. See times for Braemar Arena classes here: Braemar Schedule.

How do I apply for a grant?

Please visit the “Apply” section of our website. We will respond to your request promptly!

Are donations tax-exempt?

Skate Forward is a registered 501(c)3 corporation. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the IRS’s guidelines. 

How can Skate Forward support my local skating program?

We are always excited by the possibility of helping more skaters. Please contact us using the “contact” form or send us an email at skateforwardmn@gmail.com. We will respond promptly! 

Questions for Skaters:

  • Skate Forward’s goal is to provide those who are unable to independently enroll in skating lessons the resources to do so. If you can attest that you would be otherwise unable to fund skating lessons and equipment needs, then you are eligible. We do not require prior experience. Advanced skaters (beyond typical group lessons) should contact us directly to assess eligibility. Age requirement: 3-18yrs here

  • Description text goes heWe ensure that grant-receiving skaters do not have to pay for any equipment or lesson fees. What we provide is different for each skater; you may already have some equipment like jackets and helmets at home! We work with our skaters to understand what they need and cover 100% of the remaining costs.*

    *Skate Forward covers only the costs of equipment (including skates, helmets, and jackets) and lessons fees. For more information please contact us directly.

  • No! We welcome both first-time skaters and skaters who have previously taken lessons but have since been unable to continue independently. Advanced skaters (beyond typical group lessons) should contact us directly to assess eligibility. 

  • We work primarily with the City of Edina at the Braemar Arena. Please contact us if you have interest in a program at a different rink in the metro area; we want to help!  

  • Registration is currently open for the fall session. Exact times differ based on current level. See times for Braemar Arena classes here: Braemar Schedule. 

  • Please visit the “Apply” section of our website. We will respond to your request promptly!

Questions for Donors and Directors:

  • Skate Forward is a registered 501(c)3 corporation. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the IRS’s guidelines. 

  • 100% of donations received go to supporting skaters. A publicized spreadsheet of spending is available; please contact us if you are interested in seeing it.

  • Please join our emailing list under the "contact" section for all of the latest updates.

  • We are always excited by the possibility of helping more skaters. Please contact us using the “contact” form or send us an email at skateforwardmn@gmail.com. We will respond promptly!