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The Riekes Center
3455 Edison Way
Menlo Park, CA
Uber
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Programs
Overview of Riekes Center Programs: At the Riekes Center, we give students of all ages an opportunity to ignite an interest or pursue a passion in athletic fitness, creative arts and nature awareness. Whether you want to train for your sport, increase your level of fitness, learn to play piano or guitar, study film making, photography, drawing or painting, or track animals and identify beneficial plants in the wilderness, we have a program for you! Our programs are customized to help you achieve your individual goals. These are the programs we currently offer. If you don't see what you are looking for, contact us and we may be able to create a program just for you!
Rise-up
Riekes Institute of Speed and Explosiveness- Unleashed Potential
Featuring Athletic Republic training equipment and protocols.
It's Time to Rise-up with Us
The Riekes Center for Human Enhancement is excited to introduce our new and improved Acceleration Program - Rise-up.
As competition on the athletic field continuously gets tougher, the benefits of RISE-UP increase due to the tangible competitive advantages they give our athletes.
Rise-up enables participants to measurably run faster (speed), jump higher (explosiveness), improve agility and build physical endurance.
Each athlete's individualized program is based on his or her pre-evaluation, then further tailored by our elite coaching staff using cutting-edge training techniques and industry-leading proprietary methods adapted from Athletic Republic's protocols.
Our coaching staff benefits from years of relevant experience in training athletes of all ages and abilities.
State-of-the art equipment and facilities, provided through our partnership with Athletic Republic, create the platform for our expert coaching staff to take Speed and Explosiveness Development to a whole new level.
Speed Technique Training
Do you remember the day you first learned how to run? Many people remember the day they first learned how to ride a bike, but can you remember the day you first learned how to run? Don't worry if you can't, almost no one does.
This is a question that professional speed coach Phil Campbell asks
athletes he trains to make the point that we learn running technique when we are so young we don't remember it, and when we aren't strong enough to place the body in the correct sprinting position.
We learn how to run upright
with long-distance running technique, and it's not only beneficial, but necessary, for athletes to learn how to correctly position the body to propel the movements of sprinting with the strongest muscles in the body that are loaded with fast-muscle fiber. This doesn't come naturally. Correct speed technique must be learned.
Elite athletes learn advanced speed techniques, or simply, they don't become elite athletes.
In only two sessions at the Riekes Center in Menlo Park, California
with professional speed coach Phil Campbell, M.S., M.A., American College of Sports Medicine Certified trainer and author with 38 years of experience, athletes will learn perfect speed technique for linear (straight) sprinting and perfect speed technique for lateral and multi-directional movements.
Most importantly, athletes will discover how to take their new speed skills acquired
during speed technique training and apply them on the field or court for sport-specific and even position-specific movements.
The value of professional speed training continues for years!
Once athletes have completed the two-session training and have learned correct speed technique
for linear, lateral and functional sports-specific movements, athletes will return to their regular speed and strength training.
Except now, athletes will be training with perfect speed technique, and they will continue to get faster-and-faster by building the fast-muscle fiber
that propels sports movements when practicing and training with optimal speed technique. Need speed? We have the solution for you! Call 650 465-9815 for questions and scheduling or discover more at www.40speed.com Guaranteed to make you faster!
Professional Speed Coach Phil Campbell
M.S., M.A, Fache, Board Certified American College of Sports Medicine.
Phil Campbell has a lifetime of experience in researching best practices and creating new and innovative ways to achieve award-winning levels of performance.
As a full-time speed coach, his results are superior to practitioners with nationally recognized techniques. In an industry that touts an average of two tenths improvement in the 40-yard sprint as being the best results possible, Phil Campbell's trainees achieve an average of two-tenths in the 20-yard sprint, three-tenths in the football combines 40, and four-tenths average improvement in the 60 baseball showcase. Elite athletes gain on average 1.2 to 2 tenths improvement in the 20-yard sprint.
Phil Campbell specializes in "getting big guys fast.
As a 6'2" 225 pound USAT&F Masters Track 100 and 200 meter sprinter, discus and javelin thrower, he understands exactly how to train large athletes and elite athletes to run much faster. With Speed Technique Training and Combine Prep Training, Seattle Seahawks WR Ricardo Lockette 6'3' 220, achieved superior performance in the Indy Combines, was the fastest receiver and now wears a Super Bowl Ring.
Gary Riekes, Founder and Executive Director of the Riekes Center, worked to recruit Phil Campbell for several years to move from Tennessee and build a premier speed training center in the Bay Area.
Prior to moving to the Bay Area in 2013 to join the Riekes Center, most athletes traveled across the country to Memphis or Nashville, Tennessee for his two-day Speed Technique Training. Many athletes and coaches have employed Speed Technique Coach Phil Campbell to come to their location for training.
Marlon McCree, starting safety
with the Chargers and Broncos would frequently employ Phil to perform speed technique and position-specific, fast-fiber speed training at his location. This helped Marlon McCree remain a starting safety in the NFL for nine years. 49ers Inside Linebacker Shayne Skov significantly improved his speed in only two sessions.
In every pursuit, Phil Campbell has applied his education (two University advanced degrees) and training to research best practices and create new and better ways to improve performance.
While performing speed coaching on weekends, he managed hospitals for 20 years and received numerous awards and national recognition. INC Magazine published a five-page article on how he used innovation and technology to improve patient care delivery systems.
To devote full time to coaching speed technique
fitness improvement and conditioning for athletes, Phil Campbell left a career in hospital management to open more time slots for athletes and to write a fitness and strength training book in 2000 ("Ready, Set, GO! - Synergy Fitness"). The cardio program from his book, "Sprint 8", was uniquely designed to release significant amounts of exercise-induced growth hormone that mimic the results of injecting growth hormone legally. His "Sprint 8" cardio program has become the signature cardio platform and programmed into the award-winning Vision Fitness cardio units sold worldwide. He also consults for Matrix Strength, a sister company to Vision Fitness, and continues to speak and consult for Vision Fitness www.visionfitness.com.
While Phil Campbell has been quoted in articles in Oprah's Magazine, Outside Magazine, Self Magazine, On Fitness Magazine, he does not do fitness training for individuals.
He has a full schedule working exclusively with athletes on speed technique improvement and combine testing.
Phil Campbell has trained numerous athletes that have played for most SEC universities (www.40speed.com).
Three offensive linemen he has trained now start on large D-1 university teams and one is ranked #1. Two of his three children attended Bethel University in West Tennessee. After being recruited by Bethel University for two years, he joined the college in athletics management to design speed, strength and flexibility training programs for over 600 athletes. He also coached the track team and produced eight All Americans in sprinting events following one year of his training plan.
The great majority of Phil Campbell's work is with football athletes and teams.
He has worked with two men's college soccer teams. It's noteworthy that both soccer teams won the national championship the year he worked with them. Several high school teams have won state championships using his speed technique training methods.
Phil Campbell's undergraduate degree is from Middle Tennessee State University, and he holds two advanced degrees
M.S. from Central Michigan University and M.A. from Liberty University. He is professionally certified by the American College of Sports Medicine and the American College of Healthcare Executives. Due to numerous requests from coaches to learn his speed training methods, he created the first ever Certification for Speed Coach and has trained, beta-tested and certified coaches as CSC, Certified Speed Coach credential.
Phil Campbell has always offered a money-back guarantee to athletes.
It's simple, if athletes don't get faster in two sessions, you don't pay. In over 18,000 athletes over the years, he has never been asked for a refund. More info: www.40speed.com www.visionfitness.com www.readysetgofitness.com.
Pricing Information
Call Kathy to schedule at (650) 465-9815. Rates for Phil Campbell's Elite SPEED TECHNIQUE TRAINING at the Riekes Center in Menlo Park, CA are:
Athlete
Speed technique training includes two sessions of 2 hours each. We offer a money back guarantee! It's simple. If you don't improve speed for your sport and you aren't 100% satisfied, payment will be refunded.
- One athlete $500.00
- Three athletes (each) $400.00
Pinnacle (age 14+)
Are you a college athlete? An aspiring college athlete?
We can help you achieve your goals! Our Pinnacle Program emphasizes functional enhancement for students striving to gain the highest level of athletic performance. This program prepares your mind and body for the rigors of college athletics. Pinnacle students will receive a thorough musculoskeletal movement screening, athletic performance evaluation, and body composition assessments utilizing cutting edge Fit3D technology.
Tim Dempsey, Head Coach
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Certified Exercise Trainer of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization- Prague (Czech Republic) Institute of Rehabilitation
Certified Personal Trainer- National Strength and Conditioning Association
Performance Enhancement Specialist- National Academy of Sports Medicine
Postural Restoration Institute coursework in Postural Respiration and Myokinematic Restoration
Level 1 Coach
USA Track and Field.
Club Coach
USA Weightlifting.
Level 3 Coach
Athletic Republic.
Our training sessions include
Dynamic warm-up, focused on flexibility and joint range of motion
Core strength and stabilization exercises
Complex Olympic lifting movements
Running and agility drills
Plyometric movements
Weight training for upper & lower body
Our training sessions - Also included
Two body composition assessments (one pre- and one post-program)
The coach to student ratio is limited to 1:10 so maximum results can be achieved. Students work out for 90 minutes. The number of days per week depends on their goals or competitive season.
Pinnacle Summer Schedule
June 1 - Aug 15, 2015. For more information, please contact Tim Dempsey at (650) 860-8004 or tdempsey@riekes.org.
Monday- Friday 10-11:30 am; 4-5:30 pm
Saturday from 10-11:30 am
Pricing Information
To see a list of program prices for the entire Riekes Center
download the Riekes Price Sheet (PDF, 164 KB). Prices are subject to change; for the most up-to-date information, please contact us.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Core (age 13 - 18)
Do you want to:
Improve your athletic performance in your chosen sport or activity?
Get in shape?
Lose weight?
Gain weight?
Get buff, or just improve your muscle tone?
We will design a program to meet your goals.
We will design a program to meet your goals
Core is a customized strength and conditioning program, designed to help you accomplish your visual and functional goals
visual goals = how your body looks; functional goals = how your body performs.
A variety of students from all walks of life join this program to change their visual appearance (awesome abs, here I come!)
improve their athletic performance, or just increase their overall fitness level.
How It Works
Core students begin by taking a quick tour (call 650-364-2509 to schedule a tour) and filling out a Goals and Needs Application.
Next, you will undergo a 30-minute physical evaluation.
Based on your application and the evaluation, a coach will create a workout customized to your needs and abilities.
A coach will guide you through three scheduled workouts, and after that you will be in charge of your own workout
don't worry, coaches are always around to help out or answer questions.
Each time you come in
your coach will update your workout, change weights as necessary, and let you know when it's time to accelerate your progress by creating a new plan.
Students work out every other day, up to three times a week (your body needs rest, too!)
workouts can range from 45 minutes to 120 minutes, based on your schedule.
Program Benefits
You will gain self-confidence through the attainment of your personal goals.
You will gain self-reliance
because these are your dreams, not ours; we simply have a highly qualified and caring staff to help bring out your best in an environment where everyone succeeds.
You will look and feel better!
Pricing Information
To see a list of program prices for the entire Riekes Center
download the Riekes Price Sheet (PDF, 176 KB). Prices are subject to change; for the most up-to-date information, please contact us.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Adult Fitness Program (age 18+)
Personalized training for everyone.
The Riekes Center's adult fitness program is designed to optimize an individual's performance in all areas of life.
Each student's fitness goals guide the creation of their individualized training program. Our fitness formula is capable of meeting a variety of student goals, including high performance athletes, injury recovery, joint replacement, general recreational activities, and those who seek all around wellness for everyday life. Each customized workout will include a variety of exercises that make coming to the gym fun and effective. These workouts may include strength and conditioning, cardio, resistance training, sport specific exercises, and postural restoration. Every workout is created and updated with great care and attention by a coach who is dedicated to helping each student achieve their goals.
Our Adult Fitness workouts are designed
with the following guidelines:
Safety
Proper movements to help recover from past injury and to prevent the possibility of future injury.
Goals
Individualized and customized assessment and plan creation.
Efficiency
Minimum time to achieve the maximum results.
Effective
Experienced coaches create an optimal performance plan to reach the highest results.
Care
Individualized attention in an environment of non-judgment where everyone is supported regardless of their goals, abilities or interests.
How does it work?
Every student's fitness journey at the Riekes Center starts
with a private 1-hour evaluation of his or her fitness history, past and current injuries, fitness goals and ability level. Each participant gets to decide how they would like to measure their success. Options include Fit3D body scans, muscle measurements, amount of weight lifted or speed of 40 yard sprint, for example.
After the initial one-on-one session, each student is taken through a customized workout, equivalent to a personal training session.
During this session, the student's coach will lead him or her through a workout specifically designed to meet individual fitness goals, while demonstrating the safe and efficient way to perform each exercise. If needed, the coach will schedule a second or third guided workout with the student.
Following the initial training session(s), each student is given full access to our high performance gym to work out using their personalized plan.
Riekes Center coaches are able to help with questions or exercises as needed during the workout and will review and update each workout as necessary.
After 6 weeks, the coach will check in with the student to make sure all is well and answer any questions.
After 12 weeks, the coach will contact each participant to schedule a new evaluation and discussion of goals. At this point, all the steps are repeated to ensure the student's goals and progress continue to advance. If the student prefers, he or she can stay with the original workout. It's your choice.
What's included?
Customized performance workout designed to meet your goals and needs
Personalized care from experienced fitness coaches
One-on-one training sessions at regular 12-week cycles
R-Fit small group classes
Myofascia evaluation and release classes
Unlimited access to our 40,000 square foot facility
Monthly Fit3D avatar body scan
Flume access for treadmill-type swimming
AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill access for injury recovery, prevention, and weight loss
Basketball court access
R-FIT Small Group Training
The R-FIT small group training is the Riekes Center's signature adult fitness class.
The classes focuses on functional integrative movements designed to be effective while preventing injury. Each hour-long class provides a holistic workout and will change emphasis from class to class, keeping the workout fun and interesting. The different class themes include endurance, strength, agility and explosiveness. Within these themes, a variety of exercises are used to promote multi-directional movement. Each workout has built-in progressions so everyone can work at their own ability level. Those seeking a more rigorous workout are afforded the opportunity to do so, allowing each student to challenge themselves as they see fit.
Classes
Classes are: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 6:30-7:30 am Tuesday, Thursday 6-7 pm Also Included: Self-Myofascial Release/Stress Management Class.
Self-Myofascial Release/Stress Management
Protect your joy of movement by learning about myofascial release.
This class incorporates diaphragmatic breathing, restorative yoga, massage and self myofascial release techniques
The result is greater fluidity of movement and self awareness. Come learn all about fascia and how this amazing connective tissue powerfully influences our well-being and health.
Class Schedule
Monday and Wednesday from 1 to 2 pm at the Riekes Center; Cost: drop-in fee (waived for students enrolled in Smart, Core or Pinnacle); Instructor: Wendy Figone, Certified Myofascial Therapist, Yoga Therapist, BS Exercise/Nutrition. Email: wfigone@riekes.org; Phone: (650) 730-6005.
- Cost $20.00
Pricing Information
Enrolled students
Receive 25% off your next month when you refer a friend who brings in a coupon for a free month! Just pick up your coupons at the center and give to friends and family members. Contact us for details.
For $100 per month, students receive unlimited access to group classes
a personalized workout and use of the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill and Fit3D body scan technology. If you are not enrolled in the monthly program, there is a $20 drop-in fee for each group class, or you can save 10% by purchasing 10 sessions for $180.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509.
Personal Training
Personal training with a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach is an excellent way to achieve your goals to become fitter, stronger, healthier, and a better competitor. With a coach who is 100% focused on you, you can specifically target areas you would like to improve and enjoy faster progress. The Riekes Center offers personal training for the following areas.
Sport specific training
Follow up training after physical therapy
Pre and post natal
Weight loss
Home workout programs
Pain reduction
Postural assessment
Tim Dempsey
Director of Athletic Fitness.
Tim came to the Riekes Center in 2005 as a Strength Coach and Personal Trainer, and he was promoted into the position of Athletic Fitness Director in 2012.
In addition to developing the Riekes Center AF staff, he is responsible for overseeing RISE-UP and SMART, and he has direct coaching responsibilities for Pinnacle, a full slate of personal training students, and also trains students that are in the Adaptive and Paralympic programs. Tim's diverse experiences have led him to develop an innovative training style that has a special emphasis on injury prevention and reduction of chronic pain. He is one of the few trainers on the West Coast that has been certified in Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization by the world renowned Prague (Czech Republic) Institute of Rehabilitation (click here for a list of DNS Certified Exercise Trainers).
Tim's training expertise is sought outside of the Riekes Center, both in English and Spanish.
He has been the featured trainer for the training tip of the week on the Cal High Sports Bay Area television show the past several years; presented at the US Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs in 2012 and 2013; at a national coaching conference in the Mexican Olympic Village in Mexico City; was filmed for a Spanish language speed training video series; and he is a regular contributor for the Spanish language coaching website "Coaches Digitales" that is used for coaches education throughout Mexico, Panama, Argentina, and Colombia.
Tim is in the unique position of having been a coach and athlete at the high school, college, and masters level, and also as a parent.
His oldest daughter, Rosario was a high school swimmer and cross country runner, and his youngest daughter, Becky is active in the youth sports scene.
Coaching experience prior to 2005
2000-2005 AXIS Performance Center, Menlo Park, CA
Master Trainer and Team Leader.
2001 to 2003 Menlo College
Head Cross Country and Track Coach.
1999 to 2000 Athletic Trainer/Strength and Conditioning Coach
Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Mexico.
2000- Strength Coach
Mexican Junior National Team.
1995 to 1999 Track Coach/Strength and Conditioning Coach
Universidad Popular Autonoma del Estado de Puebla, Mexico.
1996 to 1999 summers
Personal Trainer - Club Fitness, Peoria, IL.
Certificates
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Certified Exercise Trainer of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization
Prague (Czech Republic) Institute of Rehabilitation.
Certified Personal Trainer
National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Performance Enhancement Specialist
National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Level 1 Coach
USA Track and Field.
Club Coach
USA Weightlifting.
Level 3 Coach
Athletic Republic.
Level 1 SICCED
Sistema de Capacitacion para Entrenadores Deportivas- Mexican National Coaching System.
Athletic Experience
Age Group
competitive soccer, tennis, swimming
Peoria High School
Soccer Captain, MVP, and All Conference Track Honor Roll 4×800 relay.
Marycrest College
starter on soccer team, middle distance track, student athletic trainer.
St. Ambrose University
Cross Country MVP and Track team captain, student athletic trainer.
Masters
previously nationally ranked in middle distance track.
Recreational
basketball, swimming, cycling, running, soccer.
Phil Campbell
Speed and Strength Coach.
Phil Campbell holds two advanced degrees and is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine as a Personal Trainer.
He has advanced training in health services and over 35 years of experience training over 18,000 athletes in speed and strength. He spent 20 years in hospital administration, including several years as a Division President with eight hospitals under his command, where it was his responsibility to take the medical disciplines of surgery, pathology, radiology, pediatrics, physical rehabilitation, physical therapy, pharmacology, and other health disciplines and operationalize diverse medical, health and wellness services into a comprehensive healthcare delivery system for the purpose of improving the lives of others.
As a masters athlete, Phil holds several USA Track & Field titles including first place in the 100-meter sprint and Southeastern US Championships for his age group in 2000
In 2003, he won the 200-meter sprint and the discus throw; placed second in the 100 meters; and he set the meet record in the javelin during the USA Masters Track & Field Tennessee Championships. Nationally, he has placed third in his age group in the javelin and fifth in discus. In his late 40's, he won a 40-yard dash competition in 4.69 seconds. He teaches athletes how to improve speed, agility and quickness during his speed camps held across the US (learn more at www.40speed.com). Phil holds a black belt in Isshinryu Karate and has won several martial arts and weightlifting competitions.
Andrew Havili
Strength and Conditioning Coach.
Andrew started working at the Riekes Center in February of 2009, primarily working in the speed program.
He was also an athlete training at the Riekes Center while playing football at the College of San Mateo and Portland State University, where he played offensive line. During his tenure here, Andrew has worked with lots of different athletes ranging in skill levels from beginners to professional athletes. He also works a lot with Veterans and adaptive sports athletes, which makes him one of the most versatile coaches at the Riekes Center. He has experience working with professional mixed martial artists, college athletes, high school athletes, and youth.
Outside of the Riekes Center, Andrew was born and raised in the Northern Peninsula
where he graduated from Burlingame High School, received his Associates of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts from College of San Mateo and received his Bachelor's of Science Degree in Kinesiology from Portland State University.
Certificates
Club Coach
USA Weightlifting.
Athletic Republic Level 3 Speed Coach
Certified Sprint 8 Coach
Certified Bod Pod Technician
Athletic Experience
Burlingame High School
Lineman of the Year, First Team All League, First Team All County, First Team All State .
College of San Mateo
First Team All Conference, First Team All State, Honorable Mention All American, Offensive MVP, Academic All American.
Portland State University
Offensive Lineman.
Robbie Merrill
Specialized Programs, Personal Training.
Robbie was born and raised in Menlo Park.
He started working for and exercising at the Riekes Center as a student when he was in the 7th grade and has been with us ever since. He attended Serra High School in San Mateo where he played Football, Basketball and Baseball.
Following High School, Robbie studied at the University of Arizona, where he graduated in 2006
with a BS in Physical Education with an interest in working in the exercise world.
Robbie has extensive training and experience working with youth and adults through one-on-one as well as group sessions.
He has worked with individuals with special needs, hearing and visual impairments, underserved communities and veterans, to name a few. His broad area of expertise is a perfect fit at the Riekes Center. Robbie has coached the following programs at the Center: Elements, CORE, SMART, Pinnacle, Personal Training, Veterans programs and Archery. He helped to create the Customized CORE program and also helped to design the offsite and onsite athletic programs for Laurel, Eastside Prep and Synapse schools.
Jaimie Komure
Strength and Conditioning Coach.
Jaimie grew up in Sacramento, where she played soccer and basketball and competed in swimming.
After graduating high school she attended San Francisco State University, where she majored in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Management. During the summer of her junior year, she had the opportunity to intern with the United States Paralympic High Performance and Emerging Sport Program in Colorado Springs, Colorado. There she found her interest in adaptive sports. She was introduced to the Riekes Center through her U.S. Paralympic connections and did volunteer work with the Palo Alto V.A. For her final semester she became an intern for the Center where she gained experience. Jaimie is a USA Archery Level 2 Coach and a USA Track & Field Level 1 Coach.
Elements (age 9 - 12)
Our Elements Program is one-of-a-kind, designed specifically for Riekes Center students age 9 -12.
Experts in the field of youth fitness agree that kids who begin early training in a diverse range of activities are much more likely to participate in sports and enjoy good health throughout their entire lives.
The goal of Elements is to introduce youth to fundamental movement patterns through jumping, running, and explosive movement activities.
The Elements program is fun, which encourages students to develop positive attitudes towards physical activity for a lifetime. Elements classes focus on the following: Strength and conditioning, Skill development, Improving self-esteem and body image, Social interaction, Managed weight (gain or loss), Fun and enjoyment Elements classes are led by our highly qualified staff trainers, and class sizes are small for more individualized attention.
Pricing Information
To see a list of program prices for the entire Riekes Center
download the Riekes Price Sheet (PDF, 176 KB). Prices are subject to change; for the most up-to-date information, please contact us.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Adaptive sports and fitness for individuals with a disability
The designation of "Paralympic Sport Club Menlo Park" gives the Riekes Center greater opportunities to host clinics, competitions and programs for athletes with a disability, including veterans. It helps us to identify and train future Paralympians, and it also provides more funding opportunities through the US Olympic Committee.
Adaptive Sports and Fitness
The Riekes Center is committed to maintaining an inclusive and diverse environment, where students of all ability levels are welcome and treated equally.
We customize a workout plan for each student and adapt our training equipment to your individual needs, whether you are a beginner or an elite athlete. We offer several programs specifically for individuals with a disability, including Archery, Biathlon, Powerlifting, Rowing, Strength and Conditioning, Personal Training, Shooting, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Tai Chi/Qi Gong, Track & Field and Wheelchair Rugby. In addition, the Riekes Center periodically hosts clinics in Paralympic Sports such as Fencing, Goalball, Wheelchair Basketball, Table Tennis and Wheelchair Lacrosse. For information on any of these programs, please contact Sharon Kelleher at skelleher@riekes.org or call 650-298-3404. These programs are supported by a Quality of Life grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.
Partnership with VA Palo Alto and Menlo Park
Our strong partnership
with the Veterans Administration Divisions in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Livermore and San Jose allows us to help veterans achieve their goals in Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts and Nature Awareness. Veterans currently attend regular weekly programs in Strength and Conditioning, Archery, Swimming, Tai Chi/Qi Gong and Wheelchair Rugby. The grant funding for this program is awarded by U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee, through funding provided by Veterans Affairs. The grants are provided to facilitate the growth of Paralympic sport programming for disabled Veterans and disabled members of the Armed Forces. Veterans also participate in Creative Arts programs such as film, photography and drum circles, as well as Nature Awareness programs such as wild crafting, animal tracking and plant identification.
Paralympic Sport Club Menlo Park
The US Olympic Committee designated the Riekes Center as a Paralympic Sport Club in early 2011 after a rigorous and competitive application process. Some facts about the Paralympic Sport Club Program:
More than 21 million Americans have a physical or visual disability
over 2.3 million are 5-to-25 year-olds.
Less than 10% of these individuals participate in regular physical activity
Research shows consistent physical activity results in reduced stress, depression and secondary medical conditions and increases self-esteem, education success, employment rates and quality of life
U.S. Paralympics, a division of the United States Olympic Committee, is partnering
with community and military/veteran organizations across the country to provide more opportunities for individuals with physical and visual disabilities to engage in sport and physical activity.
The U.S. Olympic Committee is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that acts as the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States
Find more statistics and information at Disability Funders Network Disabilities Stat and Facts.
The primary objectives of Paralympic Sport Clubs include
To develop community-based sports clubs that recruit and involve youth and adults
with physical and visual disabilities in sports and physical activity regardless of their ability to perform.
To develop a comprehensive Paralympic Sport Club network as a foundation for a Paralympic athlete pipeline.
To provide community-based opportunities for injured service members to continue sport participation upon their release from Military Treatment Facilities (MTF).
To create a national, unified Paralympic Sport Club network
that provides a "grass-roots" awareness campaign to educate America on the opportunities and benefits inherent in sport and physical activity as practiced by persons with physical and visual disabilities.
Pricing Information
To see a list of program prices for the entire Riekes Center
download the Riekes Price Sheet (PDF, 176 KB). Prices are subject to change; for the most up-to-date information, please contact us.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Want to see your body get healthier?
Cost: $20 per scan. Free scans are available to participants in any Athletic Fitness program. Please contact the Front Desk at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Fit3D has built proprietary technology to show you how your body is changing.
You no longer have to rely on the scale alone. Now you can physically see your body change, and it's as easy as visiting the Riekes Center, where we have the Fit3D platform. The secret is cutting edge 3D technology.
In 30 seconds we capture a life-like 3D image of your body, then extract hundreds of measurements and health oriented data points from that image.
Share with your staff, doctor or coach and give them the data they need to help develop a sound fitness and nutrition plan. You can also login to your secure online account to view your 3D avatar and information, and let Fit3D help you make your own assessment. More information is available at www.fit3d.com.
AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill
The Riekes Center is proud to offer state-of-the-art equipment based on the latest advancements in technology.
If you have been injured, you know the recovery process can be long and challenging. Whether you're a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, a senior citizen or a young competitor, the Riekes Center's AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill can help get you back to the activities you love faster.
Why People Love The AlterG
Patented NASA technology allows for precise partial weight bearing
Rehab and train like never before
Professional teams and elite medical facilities are using the AlterG to revolutionize recovery programs
Originally conceived by Dr. Robert Whalen to create effective exercise regimens for NASA's astronauts
Differential Air Pressure (DAP) technology has been adapted by AlterG for use in training and rehabilitation. Cleared by the FDA in 2008, the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill is a medical device that can be used for: Rehabilitation of lower extremity injuries, Treatment of neurological conditions, Weight reduction, Aerobic conditioning, General training to combat the diseases of aging.
Increase Your Training and Minimize Stress-Related Injury
Supplement your standard sports training with the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill and improve aerobic conditioning without increasing the risk of stress-related injury.
It provides accurate unweighting for a significant reduction in ground reaction force. Athletes, coaches and trainers know that at a certain point, more sports training will cause damage or injuries. The AlterG treadmill gives you the option to cross-train with less stress on your body.
The AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill is available for use by the general public.
Please contact the Front Desk at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Media Services
Highlight Reels
Highlight Reels are the way to gain a competitive edge and increase your opportunities, whether you are already working with recruiters or trying to get noticed. Our video department is fully equipped to professionally produce your reel for you.
- Basic Highlight Reel $350.00
Summer Camps 2016
Early Bird discount: $50 off all camps through February 19! Extended Care is now available 8am-5pm for all camps at the Riekes Center. Learn More.
June
June 12-18 - Four Fires Rendezvous
Ages 13-17, overnight camp.
June 13-17 Camp AFCANA Session 1
(AFCANA is: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, Nature Awareness) - Ages 7-13, 9am - 3pm
June 20-24 - Nature Explorers at Huddart Park
Ages 6-13, 9am - 3pm.
June 20-24 Mountains to Sea Santa Cruz
Ages 6-12, 9am - 4pm.
June 20-24 Youth Rock Camp Session 1
Ages 9-13, 9am-3pm.
June 20-24 - Photography Camp Session 1
Ages 10-18, 9am-3pm.
June 27 - July 1 Camp AFCANA Session 2
(AFCANA is: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, Nature Awareness) -Ages 7-13, 9am - 3pm.
June 27 - July 1 Bay to Sea Menlo Park Session 1
Ages 7-12, 9am - 4pm.
June 27 - July 1 Surf Camp Session 1
Ages 6-18, 8:30am - 1:30 pm.
June 27-July 1 - Electronic Music Camp Session 1
Ages 10-18, 9am-3pm.
july
July 5-8 Bay to Sea Menlo Park Session 2
Ages 7-12, 9am - 4pm.
July 5-8, Athletic Fitness Youth Camp,
Ages 9-12, 9am noon.
July 11-15, Surf Camp Session 2
Ages 6-18, 8:30am - 1:30 pm.
July 11-15, Camp AFCANA Session 3
(AFCANA is: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, Nature Awareness) - Ages 7013, 8:30am - 1:30 pm.
July 11-15, Electronic Music Camp Session 2
Ages 10-18, 9am-3pm.
July 18-22, Athletic Fitness Youth Camp
Ages 9-12, 9-noon.
July 18-22 Plant Lore and Magic at Huddart Park
Ages 6-10, 9am - 3pm.
July 18-22, Youth Video Camp
Ages 8-12, 9:30am-2:30pm.
July 18-22, Teen Rock Camp
Ages 13-18, 9am-3pm.
July 18-22, Bay to Sea Menlo Park Session 3
Ages 7-12, 9am - 4pm.
July 25-29, Surf Camp Session 3
Ages 6-18, 8:30am - 1:30 pm.
July 25-29, Photography Camp Session 2
Ages 10-18, 9am-3pm.
August
August 1-5, Camp AFCANA Session 4
(AFCANA is: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, Nature Awareness) - Ages 7-13, 9am - 3pm
August 1-5, Bay to Sea Menlo Park Session 4
Ages 7-12, 9am - 4pm.
Aug 8-12, Youth Rock Camp Session 2
Ages 9-13, 9am-3pm.
Aug 8-12, Bay to Sea Menlo Park Session 5
Ages 7-12, 9am - 4pm.
Athletic Fitness Youth Camp
Session 1
$240.00
July 5th -8th, 9 am to noon.
Session 2
$300.00
July 18- 22 , 9 am to noon.
Participants will dive into learning new individual skills as well as strengthen and refine existing ones in the following sports
Baseball- hitting, throwing, fielding, Football- quarterback and receiving skills, Basketball- shooting, dribbling, passing.
Instructors are Riekes Center staff with extensive experience in their sport.
Fun opportunity for participants to learn skills under expert guidance.
Camp AFCANA
AFCANA is: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, Nature Awareness.
Session 1
June 13-17, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 2
June 27 - July 1, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 3
July 11-15, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 4
August 1-5, 9 am to 3 pm.
Ages 7-13
Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center
What is AFCANA?
Join us for the ultimate summer camp that fuels creativity, develops fitness, and connects us to the natural world around us! Camp AFCANA integrates programming from the 3 departments at the Riekes Center: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, & Nature Awareness. This camp creates a full mind-body learning experience.
Three worlds of exciting experiential learning all in one facility
Staff trained in multi-disciplinary programming and best practices in education that enable growth in multiple intelligences
Exploration of interests and new worlds of learning
A unique summer camp experience found nowhere else!
Instructors will choose group activities
Each day students will rotate through learning experiences at the Riekes Center in our 3 departments. Cost: $370 - Limited scholarships are available. Instructors will choose group activities from each department based on group interest. Options may include:
Athletic Fitness
Speed and running mechanics; Agility training; Tread-wall climbing; Giant physio-ball and dodge ball games; Flume and swimming mechanics; Archery; Fitness games.
Creative Arts
Drum and rhythm circles; Band classes (student play guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards); Vocal training; Introduction to recording; Process painting (releasing creative energy through flow with color and shape); Video interviews (journalism and creating your own video characters); Digital photography - telling a story with images.
Nature Awareness
Fire by friction; Cooking with fire (plus pizza oven cooking); Wild edible, medicinal, and useful plant identification plus plant processing and wildcrafting; Woodworking skills (burn bowls, spoons, or gourds); Tracking; Awareness games and activities at nearby parks.
Creative Arts
Camp is designed for those who play Drums, Bass, Guitar, Keyboards, and Vocals. Other instruments, please inquire by email at info@riekes.org, Cost: $495 - Limited scholarships are available.
Youth Rock Camp
Session 1
June 20-24, 9 am - 3 pm (concert 2:30pm on Friday).
Session 2
Aug 8-12, 9 am to - pm (concert 2:30pm on Friday).
Ages 9-13
Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center
Learn new songs, jam in a band, and give a stellar performance in concert!
Whether you're just getting into your instrument, or you have rocked out before, this will be a fun week full of music. Expand your musical ability and vocabulary, including scales, chord progressions and rhythm studies found in today's popular music. Develop the technique you need to rock out and gain confidence in your stage presence in a welcoming small-group environment.
Teen Rock Camp
July 18-22, 9 am - 3:oopm (concert 2:30pm on Friday). Ages 13-18, Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center. Camp is designed for those who play Drums, Bass, Guitar, Keyboards, and Vocals. Other instruments, please inquire by email at info@riekes.org, Cost: $495 - Limited scholarships are available.
Learn new songs, jam in a band, and give a stellar performance in concert!
Expand your musical ability and vocabulary, including scales, chord progressions and rhythm studies found in today's popular music. Develop the technique you need to rock out and gain confidence in your stage presence in a welcoming small-group environment.
Electronic Music Camp
Cost: $495 - Limited scholarships are available.
Session 1
June 27-July 1, 9 am to 3 pm (with a demonstration of songs at 2:30 pm on Friday).
Session 2
July 11-15 , 9 am to 3 pm (with a demonstration of songs at 2:30 pm on Friday).
Ages 10-18
Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center
Unravel the world of sound design and make your own compositions!
This camp fosters the young composer who is interested in refining his or her ideas into a fully mixed and layered song. Participants develop their own sounds while defining their artistic identity and voice. This camp includes opportunities to explore midi synthesizers, sampling, beat making and live recording, all with the goal of creating sonic masterpieces for multiple uses. Participants learn industry standard software including Pro-Tools, Reason and Live. No previous experience necessary.
Video Camp
Cost: $495 - Limited scholarships are available.
Youth Camp July 18-22
9 am to 3 pm, Ages 8-12.
Teen Camp August 1-5
9 am to 3 pm, Ages 13-18.Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center.
Dive into the basics of digital video production and bring your imagination to life through the magic of movie making!
Explore the beloved craft while learning to use professional equipment, editing software and much more!.
Photography Camp
Cost: $495 - Limited scholarships are available.
Session 1
June 20-24, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 2
July 25-29, 9 am to 3 pm. Ages 10-18 Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center.
Ages 10-18
Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center
This camp provides students with the tools they need to express themselves through digital and film photography.
Students learn photography skills such as operation of manual and auto-focus cameras, exposure settings, lighting, basic composition, and digital photo editing. Instructors also provide step-by-step instruction on the development and enlargement of 35mm film photographs in the darkroom. Photography has the power to shed light on the world in unexpected ways. A well-composed image can change the way someone thinks or feels. Create images that reflect your point of view in a fresh and inspired way.
Camp AFCANA
AFCANA is: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, Nature Awareness.
Session 1
June 13-17, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 2
June 27 - July 1, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 3
July 11-15, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 4
August 1-5, 9 am to 3 pm.
Ages 7-13
Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center
What is AFCANA?
Join us for the ultimate summer camp that fuels creativity, develops fitness, and connects us to the natural world around us! Camp AFCANA integrates programming from the 3 departments at the Riekes Center: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, & Nature Awareness. This camp creates a full mind-body learning experience. We will create opportunities for students to experience:
Three worlds of exciting experiential learning all in one facility
Staff trained in multi-disciplinary programming and best practices in education that enable growth in multiple intelligences
Exploration of interests and new worlds of learning
A unique summer camp experience found nowhere else!
Instructors will choose group activities
Each day students will rotate through learning experiences at the Riekes Center in our 3 departments. Cost: $370 - Limited scholarships are available. Instructors will choose group activities from each department based on group interest. Options may include:
Athletic Fitness
Speed and running mechanics; Agility training; Tread-wall climbing; Giant physio-ball and dodge ball games; Flume and swimming mechanics; Archery; Fitness games.
Creative Arts
Drum and rhythm circles; Band classes (student play guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards); Vocal training; Introduction to recording; Process painting (releasing creative energy through flow with color and shape); Video interviews (journalism and creating your own video characters); Digital photography - telling a story with images.
Nature Awareness
Fire by friction; Cooking with fire (plus pizza oven cooking); Wild edible, medicinal, and useful plant identification plus plant processing and wildcrafting; Woodworking skills (burn bowls, spoons, or gourds); Tracking; Awareness games and activities at nearby parks.
Nature Explorers Huddart Park
Cost: $380 - Limited scholarships are available. June 20-24, 9 am -3 pm. Ages: 6-13. Location: Huddart Park (drop off and pick up at Huddart)
Nature Explorers day camp enables children to create deep connections to the natural landscape through experiential nature awareness and hands-on wildcrafting activities.
Campers will explore the environment through their senses, games, survival skills, tracking, and much more! Our proven approach with highly skilled naturalists uses Cultural Mentoring and best practices in nature awareness with low student to instructor ratios.
Mountains to Sea Santa Cruz
Cost: $390 - Limited scholarships are available June 20-24, 9 am -4 pm. Ages: 6-12. Location: Drop off/Pick-Up Garfield Park, Santa Cruz.
The Mountains to Sea Day Camp will travel from the tops of the Santa Cruz mountains to the sands of the Monterey Bay and everywhere in between.
Each day brings a new adventure and destination. We will track bobcat, explore the river for crawdads, and play games that teach nature skills and awareness. Students will learn to view their "backyard" through a new lens of nature awareness. Drop off and pick up will be at Garfield Park, where we will load into the Riekes van for a different destination each day.
Bay to Sea Menlo Park
Cost: $390 - Limited scholarships are available. Note - Cost = $320 for this shorter, 4 day camp.
Session 1
June 27-July 1, 9am -4pm.
Session 2
July 5-8, 9am 4pm.
Session 3
July 18-22, 9am -4pm.
Session 4
Aug 1-5, 9am -4pm.
Session 5
Aug 8-12, 9am -4pm.
Ages 7-12
Drop off/Pick Up at Riekes Center
The Bay to Sea Day Camp will travel from the waterfowl-rich wetlands of San Francisco Bay to the sands of the Pacific Ocean and everywhere in between.
Each day brings a new adventure and destination. We will track bobcat, explore riparian river mouths, and play games that teach nature skills. Students will learn to view their "backyard" through a new lens of nature awareness. Drop off and pick up will be at the Riekes Center, where we will load into the Riekes van for a different destination each day.
Surf Camp
Cost: $420 - Limited scholarships are available.
Session One
June 27-July 1, 8:30 am -1:30 pm.
Session Two
July 11-15, 8:30 am -1:30 pm.
Session Three
July 25-29, 8:30 am -1:30 pm.
Ages 6-18
Drop off/Pick up at Riekes Center
Have you ever dreamed of learning to surf, or wanted to spend days on end improving your surfing?
If so, seek no further! Join us for surfing in Pacifica this summer. This camp will teach the fundamentals of surfing, body boarding, and body surfing. Surfers will also learn wave judgment, ocean safety, and explore tidepools from certified lifeguards and experienced surf instructors. Campers meet at the Riekes Center and are driven by staff up to Surf Camp.
Plant Lore and Magic
Cost: $375 - Limited scholarships are available. July 18-22, 9 am -3 pm. Ages 6-10. Location: Huddart Park.
Join us for an adventure into the California plant world of lore and magic.
This is a journey on the green path of helpful plants and how we can relate to them as food, medicine, and wise teachers. The week will deepen the connection to plants through story, song, medicine making, games, imagination, and the senses. Your child will learn how to make a basic herbal first aid kit. They will learn what parts of the plants are used and how to prepare them. Your child will be introduced to the ethics of Wild Crafting and how to connect deeply to plants through art, naming, and guided questions from skilled facilitators. Activities will also include herbal medicine making, plant wisdom stories, botanical drawings and wild crafted art and stone age instrument making. Instructors: Anole Dahlstrom and Marisa Bean.
Four Fires Rendezvous
Cost: $750 - Limited scholarships are available. Ages 13-17. Location: Cuyama, California.
Four Fires Returns for year #7!!
This camp is the brainchild of 4 California wilderness school leaders that began in 2010. This is a rendezvous camp where each wilderness school brings a group of teens for a week of advanced nature awareness skills and fun. In the past, themes have included scouting skills and invisibility, martial arts, hands-on stone age skills, survival quests, and solo overnight quests. In 2016 Wilderness Youth Project, based in Santa Barbara, will host schools from 4 Elements Earth Education (Grass Valley), Riekes Nature and Outside Now (San Luis Obispo). The camp will be in the high desert country of Cuyama. We will explore the local desert and watersheds, seek the cool creek bottoms and discover the tops of the summits of the local mountains. Prepare for redefining the word "epic" and resetting your inner fun-o-meter. This is an advanced nature skills week where we will offer the opportunity to meet and share skills with teens from similar nature programs throughout the state and to learn from instructors from different schools. Because of limited space and the advanced nature of this camp, applicants must apply first before being accepted into this program. Applicants must first complete a 4 Fires Application by clicking here. Staff will review each application and if necessary, contact individual applicants for an interview. Applicants who are accepted will be sent a subsequent registration link. Instructors: Dylan Mathews and Audra Rowles.
Camp AFCANA
AFCANA is: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, Nature Awareness.
Session 1
June 13-17, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 2
June 27 - July 1, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 3
July 11-15, 9 am to 3 pm.
Session 4
August 1-5, 9 am to 3 pm.
Ages 7-13
Drop off/ Pick up at Riekes Center
What is AFCANA?
Join us for the ultimate summer camp that fuels creativity, develops fitness, and connects us to the natural world around us! Camp AFCANA integrates programming from the 3 departments at the Riekes Center: Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, & Nature Awareness. This camp creates a full mind-body learning experience. We will create opportunities for students to experience:
Three worlds of exciting experiential learning all in one facility
Staff trained in multi-disciplinary programming and best practices in education that enable growth in multiple intelligences
Exploration of interests and new worlds of learning
A unique summer camp experience found nowhere else!
Instructors will choose group activities
Each day students will rotate through learning experiences at the Riekes Center in our 3 departments.Cost: $370 - Limited scholarships are available from each department based on group interest. Options may include:
Athletic Fitness
Speed and running mechanics; Agility training; Tread-wall climbing; Giant physio-ball and dodge ball games; Flume and swimming mechanics; Archery; Fitness games.
Creative Arts
Drum and rhythm circles; Band classes (student play guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards); Vocal training; Introduction to recording; Process painting (releasing creative energy through flow with color and shape); Video interviews (journalism and creating your own video characters); Digital photography - telling a story with images.
Nature Awareness
Fire by friction; Cooking with fire (plus pizza oven cooking); Wild edible, medicinal, and useful plant identification plus plant processing and wildcrafting; Woodworking skills (burn bowls, spoons, or gourds); Tracking; Awareness games and activities at nearby parks.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; Please indicate your interest on the application and the Riekes Center's scholarship manager will contact you. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Extended Care
Extended care is now available for camps that have drop off/pick up at the Riekes Center in Menlo Park.
Early drop-off is a complimentary service and students have access to our Extended Care room for a quiet, safe space to read or play quiet games until camp begins.
Early drop-off begins at 8:00 am.
Aftercare is available until 5:00 pm for all of our camps.
Aftercare includes:
healthy snack, movies, quiet reading and relaxation room, group activities and games, arts and crafts, time to practice skills learned at camp.
The cost is $10 per hour, billed per 30 minutes used.
On the first day of camp, you can give us your schedule for the entire week, or you can let us know your plans for Aftercare each morning.
For your convenience, we provide automatic billing for the week.
Just give us a credit/debit card and we will track the amount of Aftercare you use for your child throughout the week and then bill you for that time at the end of the week. You can also pay on site in advance of each day/week in you prefer.
There is no need to sign up for Extended Care at this time, though we appreciate you letting us know if you intend to use it.
Just check the "I plan on using Extended Care" box when you sign up.
Private Music Lessons
Instruments: Guitar, Bass, Drums, Piano, Voice, Ukulele, Cello, Songwriting, Recording, and Electronic Music Production.
Lessons include
Customized Weekly Sessions, Students can begin learning their favorite songs and styles from day one, in addition to learning technique and music fundamentals.
Riekes Center Recitals
Every month, students have the opportunity to perform on stage with a full band, gaining valuable live playing experience.
Pricing Information
Package of 4 Lessons
- 30 min $140.00
- 45 min $200.00
- 60 min $260.00
Single Lesson
- 30 min $40.00
- 45 min $55.00
- 60 min $70.00
Trial Lesson
- 30 min $25.00
Band Class
Band Class is the ultimate program for students who are ready to take their musical skills to a higher level.
Bands of 3-4 students meet for one hour per week and learn songs, with an emphasis on excellent live performance. Students also learn how to improvise and come up with tasteful riffs and grooves in a variety of styles. Riekes Center bands have gone on to write their own songs, play local shows, and record albums.
- (per month) $100.00
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Spoken Word, Poetry and Performance (Hip Hop)
Our Hip Hop classes offer comprehensive instruction for students who want to develop their skills in the elements of Hip Hop, including writing, rapping, theater, and beat making. Our workshops cover all these topics and more, while empowering youth to speak out on issues they are passionate about. Whether you are interested in improving as a rapper, or you want to learn the ins and outs of music production, this program will provide you with the tools you are looking for.
Lyricism
Rap, Spoken Word, Poetry
History/Appreciation
Style/Content
Rhythm/Syllable Placement
Metaphors/Similes
Song Structure
Electronic Music Production & Sound Design
Currently, all of our Hip Hop instruction is done as part of a private lesson. For more information contact Aidan Young at (650) 298-3419 or aidan@riekes.org.
Music Theory
DAWs
MIDI/Sequencers
Keyboards/Sound Modules
Samplers/Sampling
Loop Based Recording
Song Arrangement
Effects
Microphones/Preamps
Pricing Information
Package of 4 Lessons
- 30 min $140.00
- 45 min $200.00
- 60 min $260.00
- 90 min $360.00
Single Lesson
- 30 min $40.00
- 45 min $55.00
- 60 min $70.00
- 90 min $95.00
30 Minute Trial Lesson
- 30 min $25.00
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Video Programs
We offer workshops for small and large groups spanning a range of topics, including hands-on 2-D animation, screen writing, screen acting, equipment proficiencies, post-production editing and special effects. We also offer private lessons in all 3 stages of video production.
Reel Eyes
Advanced Internship & Empowerment Program, Starting Feb 2016!
Currently Accepting Applications for Fall 2015
please contact sagesse@riekes.org or call 650.298.3407Riekes Reel Eyes is a full service media production unit providing professional audio/video services to the community at large for a variety of events, special occasions, and marketing needs.Reel Eyes comprises of advanced high school aged student interns who receive real job training in technologically advanced systems as well as critical 21st century learning skills. How it Works: Students between the ages of 13-18 from the greater peninsula bay area are encouraged to apply. A select group of 6 students are chosen to join and asked to sign a 9-month contract. All profits go towards funding the Riekes Center continuation of students of all ages meeting their goals in Creative Arts, Nature Awareness and Athletic Fitness. Clients receive high quality products and walk away with a sense of pride knowing that they are supporting the larger goal to offer excellent learning opportunities to Riekes students regardless of socio economic or ethnic background.We film & edit media content for: Training Videos; Public Service Announcement's; Commercials; High School & College Sports; Sports Highlight Reels; Audition Reels; School Plays; Graduations; Concerts; Dance Recitals; Testimonials, Panels & Conference Coverage.
How it Works
Graduates from the Young Producers Project, an after school and home school program, apply for a position with Reel Eyes Productions. Other interested students from the greater peninsula bay area are also encouraged to apply. A select group of 10 students are chosen to join and asked to sign a 9-month contract. Upon successful completion of the 9 months participants receive a certificate for their involvement and are honored at a public ceremony highlighting their achievements and growth.
Brief Overview of Services
Pre-production planning & consultation
One or multi-camera shoots (up to 4 cameras available for any one event)
Professional Audio Studio & Engineering for your recording needs
Trained editors working
with the industry standard software Final Cut Pro & Adobe Premiere.
Branding through Moving Image graphics, titles, and logos.
Home School Programs
The Young Producers Project - YPP!
$375.00
Winter 2016 Dates Coming Soon Ages 12-18 (younger participants are welcome upon meeting the instructor prior to enrollment).
This course is an exploration in and learning of the three stages of video production.
Through fun hands on activities we learn the essentials of story structure, film acting, video equipment operations, post-production editing. We wrap up our program with a final screening and celebration.
Private Instruction
Our instructors teach students the fundamentals of digital and black and white photography.
We also provide guidance for students interested in conceiving and completing creative projects.
Topics Include
35mm and digital camera use
photography fundamentals
composition, exposure, lighting, etc.
Darkroom
film processing and printing.
Project Conceptualization
Digital Photo Editing Using Adobe Photoshop
Matting and Framing
Small Group Lessons
We can also customize a program for a group of 2-6 students. Contact Richard for pricing and scheduling information.
Pricing Information
Package of 4 Lessons
- 30 min $140.00
- 45 min $200.00
- 60 min $260.00
- 90 min $360.00
Single Lesson
- 30 min $40.00
- 45 min $55.00
- 60 min $70.00
- 90 min $95.00
30 Minute Trial Lesson
- 30 min $25.00
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Visual Arts
Private Art Lessons
We offer private lessons in drawing, graffiti, painting, sculpture and mixed media. Learn skills and techniques from an experienced artist and take your creativity to the next level.
Art Class
Learn fundamental techniques and artistic styles in a fun small-group environment every Saturday from 1 to 2 pm. Come take a tour and see what the fun is all about!
Pricing Information
Package of 4 Lessons
- 30 min $140.00
- 45 min $200.00
- 60 min $260.00
- 90 min $360.00
Single Lesson
- 30 min $40.00
- 45 min $55.00
- 60 min $70.00
- 90 min $95.00
30 Minute Trial Lesson
- 30 min $25.00
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Homeschool Programs
The Young Producers Project - YPP
$325.00
2014 Fall Dates TBD, Wednesdays 1-3pm Ages 12-18 (younger participants are welcome upon meeting the instructor prior to enrollment).
Act! Direct! Make Movies!
Learn how to work a state-of-the-art camera! Express yourself through make up, costumes, set design, lights and more! Join us as we explore and learn the three stages of production. We will dive into production beginning with the development of shooting scripts. Through fun hands on activities, we will learn the essentials of story structure and film acting, video equipment operations, and post-production editing. We wrap up our program with a final screening and celebration.
Media Lab
Fall Dates TBD, Mondays, 11-1:30pm, Semester Two: Jan - April 2014 / Three: May - August 2014; Starting in September, 2014, we will offer scheduled drop in hours for home school students who are in need of the resources we have to offer to create and complete projects, as long as the project is related to an academic or artistic goal. Media Lab is designed as an open house where students are invited to use the computers, cameras, recording studio, green screen and so on. Perhaps a student wants to create a video for the science course they are taking, the Riekes Center Media Lab gives students access to the equipment and software they need. All students who participate in Media Lab are asked to go through a short training so that they are proficient with the equipment. Media Lab also serves as a place students can come to meet other young people who share similar interests. It is our hope the Media Lab becomes a thriving and vibrant community as well as a valuable resource. Advanced student interns will be available as often as possible to help the youth with their projects.
- (per semester) $150.00
What parents and students have to say
"The class is fun yet a lot of serious learning is going on, and hands-on-learning is the best way to really get it.
It is structured yet follows the kids interest. The fact that they get to learn about the whole process is meaningful in many ways. They get to learn about the work that has to be done in order to get to the final product. They get to enjoy and appreciate the different steps, finding fun elements in areas that might have been, at least for my son, somewhat scary; Like standing in front of the camera and not behind it. I love the safe, respectful, friendly and relaxed atmosphere of the class. Creative arts at its best!! I highly recommend this class!" -Sharon Barkan.
"I enjoy the fact that in this class you get to go through the whole process of making the movie.
I really liked making the shots, and being director." - Tommer (Class Participant) Sign up here or contact the front desk at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509.
Media Services
The Riekes Center Offers Video Production Services
The Riekes Center offers professional quality video production services to Bay area businesses, non-profits, governmental organizations and individuals at affordable prices.
Our production unit, Reel Eyes, is comprised of professional media artists working in collaboration
with advanced student interns. Student interns receive real life training in technologically advanced systems as well as critical 21st century learning skills.
All profits go towards funding the Riekes Center's continuation of youth empowerment through Media Arts
Clients receive professional quality and high production value products and walk away with a sense of pride, knowing they are supporting the larger goal to offer excellent learning opportunities to youth regardless of socioeconomic or ethnic background.
We film & edit media content for
Panels & Conferences, Training Videos, Special Events, Public Service Announcements, Commercials, High School & College Sport Events, Audition Reels | Highlight Reels, School Plays & Performances, Graduations, Testimonials, & More.
Highlight Reels
Highlight Reels are the way to gain a competitive edge and increase your opportunities
whether you are already working with recruiters or trying to get noticed. Our video department is fully equipped to professionally produce your reel for you.
- Basic Highlight Reel $350.00
Highlight Reel Example
Media Service
Includes lights, tripod, and camera operator (does not include post-production).
- Duplication Fee $16.00
- Additional DVD (each) $6.00
- Editing (per hour) $65.00
DVD Services
Basic DVD includes Main Menu, One Button and One Video Track.
- DVD Creation $50.00
- DVD Duplication: Service Charge $17.00
- DVD's: (each) $6.00
Homeschool Nature Programs
Questions? Contact Anole at riekesna@gmail.com To register for any homeschool Nature Awareness program.
Our homeschool nature programs are recognized internationally as being at the forefront of the nature connection movement.
We utilize core routines of nature awareness and cultural mentoring techniques to connect kids to the land, themselves, and each other. We offer homeschool nature immersion programs for ages 2 to 18. Each program meets once per week for 4-6 hours from fall through spring, for a total of 30 weeks. Our programs run Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays in 2 locations: Huddart Park (Woodside) and UC Santa Cruz Arboretum. Each day begins with a large group circle where students share appreciation, and it ends with the "story of the day." We break into small groups (ratio of 8-9 students per instructor) for hands-on skills training and explorations of the landscape. Parents are invited for opening and closing circles and each season for "family days." Our teen program includes 3 expedition camping trips (transportation included), 5 days each, occurring in the fall (September), winter (January), and spring (April). The KESTREL program includes a two, 3 day camping trips, once in the fall and once in the spring. The Nest to Fledge and NEWTS program include a combined group family campout, usually in the mid fall.
Programs with current open rosters
Please contact Anole, adahlstrom@riekes.org, for questions and to schedule a visit to one of our programs.
Huddart Park (Woodside, CA) Open Rosters
Monday Kestrels (ages 9-12)
Thursday Nest To Fledge (ages 3-5.5 plus parent)
Thursday KESTRELS (ages 9-12)
UC Santa Cruz Arboretum Open Rosters
Tuesday Nest to Fledge
Tuesday KESTRELS
Wednesday Nest to Fledge
Wednesday KESTRELS
Wednesday Teens (ages 13-18)
Programs Offered
Nest to Fledge
3-5.5 years old, plus parent. 9 am to 1 pm. Huddart Park (Woodside) Thursdays and Fridays. UCSC Arboretum (Santa Cruz) Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
NEWTS
5.5-8 years olds. 9 am to 3 pm. Huddart Park Thursdays and Fridays. UCSC Arboretum Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Felton Fridays.
KESTRELS
9-12 years old. 9 am to 3 pm. Huddart Park Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. UCSC Arboretum Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Teens
13-18 years old. 9 am to 3 pm. UCSC Arboretum Wednesdays. Huddart Park Fridays.
Our curriculum focuses
on the core routines of nature awareness, which include:
Hazard Identification
Experiential Games
Journaling
Tracking
Sit Spots
choosing a spot in nature to visit on a regular basis.
Extended Wanders
Plant Uses
medicinal, edible, and traditional uses
Storytelling
Music
Hands-on Wild Crafting And Survival Skills
Sensory Awareness Training
The Language of the Birds
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for all of our programs.
We seek to provide educational opportunities regardless of income; please contact the Front Desk for more information at info@riekes.org or (650) 364-2509. In addition to direct scholarships, we offer work-trade opportunities through our Student Services program.
Program Descriptions Nest to Fledge
with parent participation.
Program
Program Time 9:00 am -1:00 pm; Locations: UCSC Arboretum (Tuesdays and Wednesdays), Huddart Park (Thursdays and Fridays); Instructors: Laura Pinney (UCSC Arboretum on Wednesdays, Huddart on Thursdays and Fridays), Katie Sullivan (UCSC Arboretum on Wednesdays), Audra Rowles (Huddart on Thursdays), Sylvia Major (Huddart on Fridays) Cady Watts and Jenny Johnston (UCSC Arboretum on Tuesdays). Click here to visit their bio pages.
The Nest to Fledge program begins
the process of nature connection in the early stages of childhood development with the intent of creating strong connections to the Earth and nurturing awareness and sensory skills for young children. Parents have the opportunity to learn along side their children each week as we explore all the diverse landscapes of the Arboretum. Each week we will gather for large group activities, and as children "fledge" they will go off on short adventures with one of our instructors and return to the fire with stories for the parents. This program is part of a larger "village" community that includes intentional overlap with the NEWTS (ages 5.5-8), KESTRELS (ages 9-12) and Teen (13 -18) on the same day. The program also includes a weekend overnight family camping trip.
NEWTS
Nature Explore Wandering Tracking & Senses
Ages: 5.5-8; Time: 9 am to 3 pm; Locations: UCSC Arboretum (Tuesday and Wednesdays), Huddart Park (Thursdays and Fridays) and Felton (Friday Foxtracks); Instructors: Dylan Mathews (Tuesday Arboretum), Audra Rowles and Cady Watts (Wednesday Arboretum), Marisa Bean and Doniga Markegard (Thursday Huddart), Cady Watts and Bree Vargo (Huddart Fridays) and Scott MacWilliam (Friday Foxtracks in Felton).
Youth begin to explore the natural world in a small group, independent of their parent, under the guidance of a naturalist.
We begin to go a little deeper into the core routines of nature awareness. Students learn to go to their sit spot independently, keep a journal, and explore the landscape with a larger home range. We also play a lot of games and they use their hands for a variety of "wild crafting" projects. We introduce a wide variety of learning topics and the kids begin to explore their personal interests in nature.
Note that youth must have competency
with the "3 P's" to enter the NEWTS. The 3 P's are: 1) Parent independence. Parents are not part of the NEWTS program, but a 2-3 week "fledging" period at the beginning of a youth's time with this group where the parent can accompany or "orbit" the child is allowed. If after this time, the child is still not parent independent, then the youth may rejoin the nest to fledge group and try again later with the NEWTS depending on opening in rosters. 2) Pack- youth must be able to carry, and pack up their own day packs, and 3) Pee/Poop- youth need to be able to pee or poop on their own, including comfort with occasionally doing this in the woods.
Kestrels
Knowledge, Ecosystems, Survival, Tracking, Respect, Explore, Leadership
Ages: 9-12; Time: 9 am to 3 pm; Locations: UCSC Arboretum (Tuesday and Wednesdays), Huddart Park (Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays); Instructors: Scott MacWilliam (Tuesday, Wednesday Arboretum), Diamond Dahlstrom (Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, Huddart), Haku Asaki (Mondays at Huddart) Anole Dahlstrom (Mondays at Huddart), Dylan Mathews (Thursdays at Huddart) and Kati Sullivan (Fridays at Huddart).
The home range expands further as the KESTRELS take to the trail.
Students learn more hands on skills, and expand their awareness skills through their senses even further. We begin to explore "guild days" where they can pick a choice hands on or awareness skill to explore and focus on. The KESTRELs also head off twice for 3 day wilderness camping adventures.
Teen Nature Program
Program
Ages 13-18; Time: 9 am to 3 pm; Locations: UCSC Arboretum (Wednesdays), Huddart Park (Fridays); Instructors: Dylan Mathews (Wednesday at the Arboretum and Friday at Huddart), Audra Rowles (Friday at Huddart).
We go deep into our explorations with the teens.
Each month we follow routines of: wanders, core routines, off site local adventures, and focused "guild" time. Teens pick individual projects of interest to explore. They also go on three 5 day expedition adventure in our vans with all teens and instructors from all programs.
After School Adventures
Are your kids ready for a digital detox? Do they crave fresh air and moving their bodies after a day in class? If so, join us as we explore nearby parks, connecting to the natural world, learning outdoor skills, playing games, and practicing awareness. Each week, we will pick up students after school and head out for adventures. Limited scholarships are available.
School Adventures
$270.00
Location: Pick up/drop off at Roy Cloud School; Spring Session: 6 weeks: March 17, 24, April 7, 14, May 5, 12; Time: 3 pm to 6 pm.
Natural Leaders Teen Program
The Riekes Center's Natural Leaders Program is a mentor training program for teens interested in deepening their nature awareness skills while learning how to mentor others in nature. Teens can assist with our weekly homeschool programs, weekend workshops, summer camps or customized nature events.
Requirements
Minimum age of 13 to work with 8 and under, age 14 to work with 9-12 year olds. Two days (10 hours total) of Riekes Center (Menlo Park) Student Service training in Riekes Philosophy and Methodology (RPM) and tour training at the Riekes Center in Menlo Park. This must be completed prior to beginning work in the field with the nature programs.
Customized Nature Awareness Programs
Do you, or your group, want to experience nature in a fun and unique way? Have you ever wanted to learn how to travel through the woods at-one with the wildlife? Do you know someone who would love celebrating their birthday with a nature adventure? With a Riekes Nature Awareness customized program, we offer a fun and flexible way for students to have an exciting nature experience. Not just for kids, these can be for any ages and stages, specially crafted to meet your individual or group needs. If you already know what type of program you are interested in, please fill out our customized nature program questionnaire.
Some of the themes that we teach
Survival Skills
Fire by friction, shelter, edible and medicinal plants, bird and plant identification, tracking, and more!
Wild-Crafting
Making things from the natural landscape, such as baskets, cordage, burn spoons, and more!
Awareness Games and Activities
High energy group awareness games, or individual awareness challenges. We have a large grab bag to choose from!
Nature Art
Drawing, painting, gourd crafting, and more.
Customized school programs
One time visits or an ongoing series. Let us know your preference and we will bring nature to your classroom!
Campouts
From daytime activities to evenings around a campfire (made by friction of course) we can be the naturalists for hire for your family or group events
You name it!
Got another natural interest? We will do our best to match your goals. Just let us know.
Student Services
The Student Services Department
offers Riekes Center students useful opportunities to become more involved with the community. You can gain valuable leadership and life skills while working in a fun environment with a supportive team. You can volunteer, receive accredited community service hours, work in trade for program tuition, or train towards becoming a future Riekes Center staff member. As a student worker, you receive all the benefits of being a Riekes Center student, as well as the joys of being a peer mentor and role model for others. We have many positions available, and we can tailor the program to meet your needs. Student workers at the Riekes Center learn communication skills by giving tours of the Center, taking lunch orders, and helping other students to achieve their goals. They learn how to run a grill and cook pizza in our outdoor oven. Students also manage the live sound at our monthly concerts, answer phones, assist at the front desk, and help take care of the gardens at the Riekes Center.
Volunteer
Dedicate your time in the area of your choice. Volunteers get to enjoy the positive, high energy environment of the Center, discover new interests or passions, and meet new people. You will also gain valuable experience and learn leadership skills.
Community Service
Receive credit towards your community service requirement. The Riekes Center is accredited to sign off on your community service hours. Gain all the benefits of being a student or volunteer while fulfilling requirements for your school or community.
Work Trade
Exchange your volunteer hours for your tuition in Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts and/or Nature Awareness programs. The Riekes Center gives students an opportunity to earn credits toward program costs in all of our departments. Joining the Student Services team is an excellent way to learn about all the opportunities available at the Center while mentoring other students and learning valuable life skills. By becoming a student worker, you will help others achieve their goals while you are pursuing your own passions and interests.
Leadership Skills
Joining the Student Services team is one way to train to become a future Riekes Center staff member. You will learn the ins and outs of the Center, improve your communication skills, become a mentor and guide for other students, and improve your character by practicing the Center's core values of honest communication, sensitivity to others and self supervision.