This December, RISE Indoor Sports was filled with laughter, movement, and holiday cheer as more than 100 elementary-aged students gathered for Reindeer Games—an event that marked the first major initiative of RISE Collective, the nonprofit arm of RISE Indoor Sports, focused on creating programs and partnerships that support youth, families, and community well-being beyond the playing field. Designed to serve and support youth during their time off from school, Reindeer Games brought together students, volunteers, and RISE staff for two unforgettable days of fun, connection, and care.
In partnership with Davie County Schools, RISE Collective welcomed K–5 students from across the county. The collaboration ensured students from multiple schools could participate, reinforcing the event’s mission to be inclusive, supportive, and community centered.
Over the span of two days, Reindeer Games transformed the facility into a festive winter environment complete with games, crafts, music, and seasonal decorations. Students rotated through a variety of activity stations designed to encourage movement, creativity, and teamwork. From energetic games and relay-style challenges to hands-on crafts and holiday-themed activities, every station emphasized fun, participation, and positive interaction.
In addition to the activities, students were treated to thoughtful extras that made the event feel truly special. Each child received gifts to take home, enjoyed snacks throughout the day, and was served two full meals—an important component that underscored RISE Collective’s commitment to meeting both physical and practical needs. A special visit from Santa Claus brought added excitement, smiles, and memorable moments that many children will carry with them well beyond the holiday season.
A key ingredient in the success of Reindeer Games was the overwhelming support from volunteers. More than 110 local high school and college students, along with a handful of RISE’s own Silver Sneakers members, donated over 500 volunteer hours across the two-day event. Because of our partnership with Davie County High School Athletics, many of these volunteers were student-athletes who brought energy, leadership, and encouragement to every activity station. Their role went far beyond supervision; they actively engaged with the children, cheered them on, and helped create a welcoming, inclusive environment.
For the volunteers, Reindeer Games was an opportunity to give back in a meaningful way while gaining hands-on experience in leadership and service.
“I loved getting to volunteer at the RISE Reindeer Games!” said one of the student volunteers. “It was a great and rewarding volunteer experience, where I got to see kids have so much fun and have fun myself! I loved how I was able to form connections and bond with the kids in such little time!”
For the younger participants, it was a chance to interact with positive role models who took the time to connect, support, and celebrate them throughout the day.
A parent shared, “My shy son doesn’t typically like camps, but I was desperate for childcare. To my surprise, when I picked him up at the end of the first day and asked if he would like to go back for the second day, there was no hesitation. He loved his group leaders and had the absolute best time.”
Parents, school partners, and staff alike noted the intentional structure of the event. The organization and care behind each detail reflected RISE Collective’s broader vision of creating impactful programs that support youth development beyond the playing field.
As its inaugural large-scale initiative, Reindeer Games set a strong foundation for what RISE Collective aims to accomplish moving forward. The event demonstrated how partnerships, volunteers, and shared purpose can come together to create experiences that uplift children and strengthen community ties.
As the final games wrapped up and students headed home with gifts in hand, the message was clear: Reindeer Games was about far more than holiday fun. It was about generosity, service, and creating joyful moments that remind children they are valued. With its successful debut, Reindeer Games stands as a powerful example of how community-driven initiatives can make a lasting impact—one child, one smile, and one shared experience at a time.
