To the editor:

Thank you to the Portage Health Auxiliary for supporting a new and exciting program at the Portage Lake District Library.

The Portage Health Auxiliary has awarded the library a $3,000 grant to assist with the development of Rad Academy, an afterschool program launching next fall that will include skateboard instruction at Houghton’s new skatepark, as well as project-based STEAM activities related to action sports culture. By the end of the program, students will use their new skillset to design and create their own skateboard deck in collaboration with Quincy Woodrights, a Houghton-based skateboard manufacturer.

The program also aims to create future leaders by mentoring and empowering youth through unique skill building and engagement opportunities. Simply put, without grant funding from the Portage Health Auxiliary, this program would not be possible.