HOLLAND, MICH. — Through the last eight months of the pandemic, the owners of The Rink roller skating rink in Holland have faced their fair share of challenges.
“You wonder how are you going to pay for this, how are you going to pay for that,” co-owner Tony Nolan said.
The Rink is owned by a couple, who are both pastors. They say they are there as part of their efforts to help young people in Holland have a safe place to go hang out.
Their 11 seasons in business could never prepare them for their 12th, in 2020.
Limitations on gatherings and entertainment venues like The Rink prevent them from opening. However, having to close permanently has never been an option.
“If we counted on what we saw, we probably would have given up a long time ago. I’m sure you’ve heard, walk by faith, not by sight. We believe that we are supposed to be here,” Nolan said.
Businesses in the community have held fundraisers, as The Rink did when they were allowed to open with limitations of course. Pro Low and Pro Care did a garage sale and donated all the proceeds to the Rink.
They say they know in their hearts, they're going to stay open.
“I think for parents, to them it means a safe place they feel comfortable enough to drop their children off at,” events manager Stacia Muhammad said.
Stacia Muhammad's parents own The Rink. She says she's seen first-hand how many people love their business over the last few months.
“I’ve had so many people say you don’t know what your mom and dad have done for me,” Muhammad said.
To get involved in helping Save The Rink, you can donate directly to their CashApp at $TheRinkHolland, or visit their Facebook page for fundraiser information.
