At a naming reveal ceremony Oct. 3, Cornerstone Community Center formally introduced the Donald and Patricia Schneider Family Arena and offered those in attendance guided tours. The arena, which is currently under construction, will accommodate a growing demand for on-ice community sports programs.
“The Donald and Patricia Schneider family have generously supported our efforts to grow Cornerstone’s facilities to provide additional opportunities for our community,” explained Don Chilson, Cornerstone’s manager. “We thank the Schneiders and all of our other generous donors for recognizing the importance of programs like ours and supporting healthy opportunities for kids and families in Northeast Wisconsin.”
The new 65,000 square foot arena offers 3,000 spectator seats, expanding opportunities not only for youth, high school, college and adult athletes to attract larger, national tournaments which help boost local tourism. Each national event booked has an estimated $5 million in local economic impact.
“The benefits of this project reach far beyond the rink. Individuals and communities alike benefit from community sports programs,” said Paul Schneider, a representative for the Schneider family. “From better physical and mental health and improved academic performance to stronger life skills and reduced crime rates, the skating programs offered by Cornerstone yield lasting positive impacts and build stronger communities. This facility is truly a community treasure, improving the quality of life for the region and our family is proud to support it.”
With this announcement, Cornerstone launched the public phase of their Grow the ‘Stone fundraising campaign. They’ve raised $20 million of the $23 million goal during the initial phase of their campaign. Now they are seeking the help of the community to secure the final $3 million to carry the fundraising effort over the goal line.
For more information about Cornerstone Community Center or to donate, visit cornerstoneicecenter.org.
