Prairie Grit Expands Inclusive Opportunities with “All Kids Swim”
NDAD is proud to support Prairie Grit Adaptive Sports in Minot with a $3,600 Gibbens Memorial Grant to expand access to adaptive swim instruction through its All Kids Swim program.

Teaching Life-Saving Skills in an Inclusive Environment
The All Kids Swim program is designed specifically for children with special healthcare needs, offering ten six-week sessions focused on building essential water safety skills. Participants will learn critical techniques such as floating, breath control, and safe water entry and exit—all within a supportive, inclusive environment.

Beyond safety, the program emphasizes Prairie Grit’s whole-person approach, helping children build confidence, independence, and social connections while fostering a sense of belonging and achievement.

“This grant is directly advancing Prairie Grit Adaptive Sports’ mission to redefine ability and remove barriers to participation by providing equitable access to adaptive swim instruction for children with health challenges,” said Krystal Butgereit, Executive Director.

Removing Barriers, Expanding Access
Grant funding will help offset participation costs for families, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent children from accessing life-changing swim instruction. This investment allows more children to benefit from a program that prioritizes ability, inclusion, and personal growth.

Creating Safer, Stronger Futures
Through this program, children gain vital water safety skills that can help reduce the risk of drowning and develop confidence and independence that extends far beyond the pool.

“Access to adaptive programs like swim instruction is about more than learning a skill—it’s about building confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging,” said DeAnn Burckhard, NDAD Marketing Director. “When we invest in inclusive opportunities like this, we’re helping children gain life-saving skills while opening the door to greater participation in their communities.”

Continuing a Legacy of Impact
NDAD’s Gibbens Memorial Grant supports projects that enhance health, well-being, and quality of life for individuals in at-risk populations. Established in 2015 in honor of NDAD founders Faye and Ron Gibbens, the grant carries forward their legacy of creating meaningful opportunities and improving lives across North Dakota.