COMMUNITY OUTREACH
The S.T.O.R.M. Program takes pride in developing our student-athletes into community leaders and well-rounded young men. Through various community outreach efforts, our athletes are able to gain valuable leadership skills and make our community a better place while impacting the lives of others in a positive way. During the 2023-24 academic year, our football student-athletes volunteered 3,121 hours and received the Cyclones Serve Award at Iowa State Athletics Department's O.S.C.A.R.S (Outstanding Scholar-Athletes Celebrating Achievements & Recognition Showcase).
SUMMER COMMUNITY SERVICE
During the summer, our student-athletes participate in various community service initiatives within the Ames community. These initiatives consist of volunteering and providing assistance at the Youth & Shelter Services (YSS) and Ember Recovery. Additionally, our student-athletes participated in games and educational activities with elementary students at the Boone Kids Club and the Ames Summer Enrichment Program.
WINTER COMMUNITY SERVICE
During the spring semester, student-athletes participate in weekly community service initiatives throughout the state of Iowa. These initiatives include volunteering at the Iowa Youth Homeless Shelter, YSS and the Single Parent Provision. In collaboration with YSS, our student-athletes host a visit at our Bergstrom Football Complex. During the visit, our student-athletes discuss coping skills and how they manage stress.
SUMMER SERVICE RETREAT/EASTERSEALS RESPITE CARE
 Wildwood Hills Ranch of Iowa Summer Retreat & Service | Link to Video
Wildwood Hills Ranch allows children to learn love, hope and new life skills through positive role modeling and hands-on experiences. They also serve families and veterans through the equestrian therapy program. A week before our fall camp, the team spends two days at Wildwood Hills Ranch for a time of bonding and serving kids who attend the camp.
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Easterseals Respite Camp
Easterseals Iowa Respite program provides temporary care for children and adults wtih disabilities, allowing parents/caregivers a break while providing the clients with a safe and supportive social environment. Every spring our entire team volunteers Easterseals to enjoy a day of outdoor play and participate in a talent show.
Victory Day
Victory Day is an event that allows more than 60 kids with disabilities to make their dreams come true by competing in drills and scoring touchdowns alongside our Cyclone student-athletes at Jack Trice Stadium. This annual event is a night to remember for all involved.
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Cyclone Claus for a Cause
Cyclone Claus for a Cause is an annual initiative established to give back to the youth during the holiday season. In 2023, our team raised over $5,600 that went toward purchasing Christmas presents for elementary students from the Des Moines Public School District.
Friday Home Game Outreach
Every Friday, prior to home football games, our student-athletes participate in various outreach initiatives around the Ames community. This community outreach includes visiting local Ames elementary schools, Brickford Senior Living facility and the Mary Greeley Medical Center.