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A community-driven vision to bring roller skating back to North Platte is gaining momentum, as Spin City continues to grow from an idea into a developing project with a permanent home and a clear mission centered on community impact.
Spin City founder and president Devon Shrum, along with board secretary Beth Smith, recently shared updates on the organization’s progress, including its transition to nonprofit status, a newly announced location, and its plans to serve families across the region.
Originally launched as a for-profit concept, Shrum said fundraising proved difficult in the early stages.
“Fundraising is a little hard when it's a for-profit business. Nobody really wants to donate to somebody who's going to make money,” she explained.
That challenge led to a major shift. Spin City is now operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, allowing funds raised to go directly back into the organization while opening the door for broader community involvement and partnerships.
“We kind of switched to make it more of a community involvement,” Shrum said. “It's not just one person who can handle all of this.”
Smith said the nonprofit structure has also made collaboration easier, bringing in ideas and support from other organizations experienced in fundraising and event planning.
“It has really changed becoming a nonprofit,” she said.
A major milestone came earlier this month when Spin City announced plans for its future home. During a teen dance fundraiser at the Prairie Arts Center, organizers revealed they will partner with the Caldwells to renovate the former Alco building near Pizza Ranch.
“We have a place now, so now we have to fill it,” Shrum said.
The building, which has been vacant for several years, offers a large space that organizers hope to transform into a vibrant recreation hub for the community.
The idea for Spin City originally grew out of a need within the local roller derby community after losing access to skating space. However, Smith emphasized the project has expanded far beyond that initial need.
“Yes, it is for the community, but it's not just our community,” Smith said. “People can come skate from anywhere.”
While skating is at the heart of the project, Spin City leaders say their broader mission is centered on providing safe, accessible recreation for all ages.
Spin City aims to create an environment where families can enjoy time together, giving children and adults a place to skate, socialize, and stay active in a fun and welcoming setting.
Youth engagement is a key focus. Organizers plan to offer programs that encourage physical activity while providing a vibrant space for kids to connect, build friendships, and develop healthy habits.
“We are very much for the kids,” Smith said. “We want a safe place for them to hang out, a safe place to play.”
In addition to regular skating opportunities, Spin City plans to host events, parties, and fundraisers designed to bring people together and strengthen community connections. Leaders say the nonprofit model will also allow them to support other local initiatives and give back to the region.
At its core, Spin City’s mission is simple: building community through skating.
As the project continues to move forward, organizers say community support will be critical in turning the vision into reality. What began as a solution to a lack of skating space is now shaping up to become a regional destination for recreation, connection, and youth engagement.