FAQ

Welcome to the Planet Rock Booster Club FAQ! We've gathered all the essential information about the team, our mission, and how we operate. If you have questions about membership, volunteering, or how we support the team, you'll find quick answers here.

 

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What is the Planet Rock Team Booster Club?

The Planet Rock Team Booster Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to support and strengthen the community around the Planet Rock youth climbing teams. Its mission is to help all team members (past, present, and future) by providing resources, fundraising, and community events that enhance the athlete experience at both gym locations.

Are there membership fees?

No. Booster Club membership is free and automatic for all Planet Rock team families. There are no additional fees beyond regular team dues. Our goal is inclusive participation! Every family is part of the community, whether or not they contribute financially.

Which gyms and teams does the Booster Club support?

The Booster Club supports all Planet Rock team programs at both the Madison Heights and Ann Arbor gyms, across all age categories and competitive levels, from Youth Team to the Comp Team. Every athlete benefits from the club’s efforts, resources, and events.

What is the Booster Club’s role compared to the coaching staff?

The Booster Club does not make coaching or operational decisions. Training, team selection, and competition strategy remain under the direction of Planet Rock coaches and staff. The Booster Club’s role is to support those goals, raising funds, organizing travel and events, and building the sense of community that makes Planet Rock unique.

What are the Booster Club’s current fundraising priorities?

Our first campaign focuses on raising $15,000 for a new set of competition-style climbing holds that mirror what athletes see at Regionals, Divisionals, and Nationals. These holds will be used primarily for team training for all teams at both locations under Coach Becca’s direction to give our climbers a true competitive edge.

How can families contribute financially?

You can make a tax-deductible donation to the Booster Club through our Stronger Together: The "Team Behind the Team" Fund campaign here:


Donate

Every dollar helps, whether it’s $10 or $100. All funds go directly toward team-wide initiatives that benefit every climber.

What committees have been formed, and how can I join one?

We’ve established four initial committees:

Fundraising Committee – plans and executes fundraising activities and sponsorship outreach. Travel

Committee – coordinates group travel, hotel options, and support for families attending competitions. Events,

Activities & Spirit Committee – organizes banquets, social events, and team-building activities.

Election Committee
– manages annual board elections to ensure smooth leadership transitions.

You can sign up by submitting the Volunteer form.

How will funds be used?

Funds raised will be used exclusively to benefit the entire team community. Initial goals include purchasing comp-style holds, supporting travel logistics, and funding team events. Future uses may include sponsorship partnerships, scholarships, and other initiatives approved by the Board.

How often does the Booster Club meet?

Board and general membership meetings will be held virtually, typically several times per season. All meetings are open to all members, and recordings will be shared afterward for anyone who cannot attend live.

How can I stay informed or get involved?

Follow updates on SportsYou (Planet Rock Booster Club group) or check your email for meeting links and summaries.

Reach out directly with questions or ideas: planetrockteamboosters@gmail.com
Ian Bolton – (312) 404-8410

Is financial participation required to be involved?

Absolutely not. The Booster Club values volunteers and enthusiasm just as much as donations. Families can support the team by joining a committee, helping at events, or simply spreading the word.

What’s the long-term vision for the Booster Club?

Our long-term goal is to preserve Planet Rock’s one-of-a-kind team culture—the family vibe, the sportsmanship, and the support network that make our athletes successful both on and off the wall. We’re building a sustainable structure so that as families come and go, the community and mission stay strong for years to come.

How can local businesses or sponsors get involved?

Businesses can support the team through tax-deductible sponsorships or event partnerships. High-visibility opportunities include gym banners, branded apparel, and event sponsorships.

To learn more, email planetrockteamboosters@gmail.com with “Sponsorship” in the subject line.

Who are the current Board Members?

  • President: Ian Bolton
    Treasurer: David Iannuzzi
    Secretary: Brian Smith
    Board Members: Julia Huffman, Brian George, Andrew Baker, Arnaud Dereims

How is the Booster Club managed financially?

The Club has a dedicated business bank account at Chase, with funds flowing directly from GoFundMe into the account. Our Treasurer, David Iannuzzi, oversees finances, and we’re implementing bookkeeping software to maintain clear, auditable records. Kristen Yandora, a nonprofit CFO with 20 years of experience, has volunteered to provide financial oversight and guidance.