Since the Reno Rodeo Foundation was created in 1986, they have distributed over $8.3 million throughout their community of Northern Nevada. Reno Rodeo Foundation Executive Director Clara Andriola says that they are about children, partnerships, and the community.
Among the many ways that this foundation helps children is through scholarships. It started with giving back to youth who wanted to pursue their dreams. Over $2 million has been given in just scholarships. Some scholarship recipients have come full circle has they volunteer and contribute to the Reno Rodeo.
In 2003, the foundation kicked off another idea of theirs, the Reno Rodeo Wish. In 20 years, over $500,000 has been distributed to help enhance the quality of children’s lives, no matter how small, when they are in the hospital. This includes anything from trips to medical equipment for their homes and more.
“We appreciate the Reno Rodeo experience because it lets you be a cowboy for 10 days and that does a lot for families,” Charlene Norvell said.
Charlene’s son, Asher, and their family have received a portable generator that allows Asher to be mobile. Charlene says the Reno Rodeo Foundation helps not only children with needs but their entire family.
Mike Lucke coined the phrase “We rodeo for the kids” and it is a phrase that Reno Rodeo lives by.