World-Known Figure Skater In KELOLAND

To help raise awareness, and some money, Catholic Family Services are holding The Gift of Hope concerts on Saturday, March 23.

And to help get the word out, they've recruited a man recognized all over the world for his figure skating skills and life triumphs.

Olympic figure skating gold medalist, Scott Hamilton, knows all about life struggles. He was given up for adoption as an infant, fought a childhood disease for much of his youth and has battled cancer twice as an adult.

Hamilton says it's these experiences that have drawn him to efforts that help others, like the Gift of Hope.

"We all have our struggles. We all have challenges. And we all have some serious issues that we need to deal with at times. To know that this organization is helping make a difference in the community, it's really an honor to be a part," Scott Hamilton said.

"His whole life is an example of the great gift that hope is. As he continues to overcome these challenges, and now he's dedicated his life to helping others. And we're just thrilled that he's helping us at Catholic Family Services," Mark Conzemius said.

While Hamilton encourages others to donate to charitable groups, like Catholic Family Services, he also points out that you don't have to have millions to make a difference.

"It is extraordinary. A lot of people think what can I do? You see people do big and magnificent things, but those big and magnificent things aren't possible without people coming together and doing whatever they can," Hamilton said.

And it's not just financial help that groups like Catholic Family Services need.

"All of us can help some one in some way. And hope is so important in our lives," Conzemius said.

"Time is the I think the most valuable commodity. You know we had so much and where do we start and where do we spend it? And just to volunteer, to be there for these people that really need our help. It's really an honor to be associated with organizations like this," Hamilton said.

While Hamilton is excited about sharing the good works being done at the Gift of Hope concerts, he's equally thrilled to complete a long time goal while in the Rushmore State.

"I toured for a long time. And I've been, I've skated in every state. Every state. And the only place I have never been is South Dakota," Hamilton said.

The two concerts will be held March 23rd at 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. at the O'Gorman Performing Arts Center.

The concerts will be conducted by locally based director and composer, Dan Goeller.