Gary Riekes,
Founder of The Riekes Center
Gary dedicated his life to creating a safe place for the pursuit of self-enhancement where each participant is considered “as important as anyone in the history of the world.” A place where anyone can participate, regardless of ability to pay or perform. Where everyone learns your name as soon as you walk through the door, and you gain an instant sense of community.
Gary has been a professional musician since the age of 9. He was a member of the Omaha Symphony Orchestra and numerous contemporary performance groups. He graduated from Stanford University, where he played football and ran track. He coached professional football, developed an educational activity music company, and lectured across the country on a wide variety of topics. Gary founded The Riekes Center for Human Enhancement in 1996.
“The Riekes Center is not about me. It is to honor my mother and father, which is why Riekes is in the name. It is in the spirit of all parents/teachers who want their children/students to have the best possibility for enhancement regardless of the outcome. The Riekes Center is a place where a student can explore an interest or pursue a passion in athletics, creative arts, or nature studies with mutual respect and without judgment. The driving force for me has always been the joy I get to share with the students in the enhancement process.”
Gary passed away in March 2021. He always said that the Riekes Center is bigger than himself and his biggest dream was for it to live on in perpetuity. We are confident that together we will make the Riekes Center continue into the future and fulfill the vision that Gary inspired.
Please join us in making a contribution to ensure the legacy of our esteemed mentor and friend, Gary Riekes.
Help us keep this special place thriving for generations to come by clicking here to Donate.
