The Minot community participated in a winter initiative that offered nearly 500 free ice skate rentals at Citizens Alley, according to an April 1 announcement. The program was made possible through a partnership between Local Motives and the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation, which provided funding to remove cost barriers during select days in late December and early January.
The effort aimed to encourage physical activity and social connection during the colder months by making recreation more accessible. Organizers initially set a goal of reaching 400 participants but saw higher turnout as families, friend groups, and first-time skaters took advantage of the opportunity.
Through support from the Caring Foundation, Citizens Alley was able to offer no-cost skate rentals from December 26 through January 4. Amber Blomberg, executive director of the BCBSND Caring Foundation, said, “Winter can be a challenging time to stay active and stay connected, which is why partnerships like this matter. By working alongside local organizations, like Local Motives, we’re helping create spaces where people can get moving, spend time together and connect with their community during the colder months.”
Jessica Ackerman, executive director of Local Motives, also commented on the impact: “What I loved most about this partnership was watching people show up – some stepping onto the ice for the very first time – and realizing this space belonged to them. The holidays can be joyful but financially heavy for families, and BCBS of ND Caring Foundation helped remove that barrier so people could come downtown, move their bodies outdoors, and be together. This partnership didn’t just provide free skate rentals – it created shared moments, strengthened community spirit, and showed how accessible recreation can bring people together in meaningful ways.”
According to the official website, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota works to improve community health through affiliations and foundation efforts. The organization is affiliated with entities such as Noridian Healthcare Solutions that manage government health programs according to its official website. BCBSND ranks as North Dakota’s leading health care coverage provider serving hundreds of thousands statewide according to its official website.
The recent skating initiative introduced many new visitors to Citizens Alley while supporting both physical activity and social connection throughout holiday break. It was part of a broader Winter Wellness on Ice program that extended similar opportunities in other communities across North Dakota.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota focuses on promoting member health through simplified care options according to its official website, provides coverage across state lines including nationwide networks according to its official website, and supports sustainable health initiatives via partnerships with organizations through its Caring Foundation as reported by its official site.
