ABOUT US

Gliding Stars of Central Florida, Inc. became an independent not-for-profit organization on October 11, 2022. We are a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Previously, for over 20 years, we were a chapter of an organization, based in Buffalo, New York - Gliding Stars, Inc. - that developed multiple chapters in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Florida. With our launch as an independent organization, the team at Gliding Stars of Central Florida continues the work promoting our cause to provide opportunities for persons with disabilities to grow physically, socially, and emotionally through our program of adaptive ice skating instruction. We are fortunate to have volunteers and staff from all walks of life who bring their unique expertise and resources into everything we do. This is what enables us to achieve our goals year after year.

While there is always more that can be done, there is no doubt that we are making a significant impact in our community. We measure success through happy faces and heartwarming feedback. See how you can become part of the difference.

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OUR VISION & MISSION

Anything Is Possible

The Gliding Stars of Central Florida organization provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to increase their personal potential through the development of ice skating skills in a regular program of instruction and practice in their local community. Our ice skating program culminates in the demonstration of those skills publicly in an end-of-season on-ice choreographed performance, which itself serves as a source of motivation, teamwork, increased self-esteem - the magical blend where skaters break through barriers and accomplish dreams on the ice.

It is the philosophy of Gliding Stars of Central Florida to use the sport of ice skating for physical, social and emotional growth of persons with disabilities. Through ice skating, people can achieve physical benefits of improved posture, fine and gross motor coordination, strengthened muscles and improved balance and coordination. A social and recreational activity, this instructional program also brings people with and without disabilities together in a team-oriented, helping environment. Our distinct program develops increased confidence and social skills for each skater, which carries over from sport to home. The achievement of progressive goals in an emotionally supportive atmosphere creates a positive self-image enhancing quality of life and seeding succeed throughout life.

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Dalle Rivera,

Orlando, FL

"My daughter and I have volunteered for Gliding Stars for five years and love the program! It’s managed by a dedicated team of volunteers in an efficient and organized manner offering a program to children with disabilities, the ‘Stars’. The team is thoughtful in their approach providing the appropriate level of training to ensure safety on the ice. The team adjusts the training for each Star based on their level of skating experience. The season ends with a show where the Stars showcase their skills they’ve been taught throughout the season. While the end of season show is focused on the Stars, I am appreciative of the volunteers also playing a role. This program has provided the opportunity for my daughter and I to volunteer together and has taught my daughter life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and diligence. Thank you for all you do Gliding Stars!"