YSS Welcomes Gabe Kalscheur as First-Ever YSS Ambassador

YSS has announced Gabe Kalscheur, a member of the Iowa State men’s basketball team, as the first-ever YSS Ambassador.

As part of the partnership, Kalscheur will engage in volunteer activities such as helping at the local YSS youth shelter and residential treatment facilities, meeting the youth in YSS’s programs, and making appearances at YSS fundraisers and events.

“I’m excited to partner with YSS and use my platform to give back,” Kalscheur said. “I believe in YSS’s mission and the important work they do to empower youth in Ames and across the state. I can’t wait to get started.”

Headquartered in Ames, YSS is one of Iowa’s oldest and largest youth-serving nonprofits—ideally positioning the organization to collaborate with Iowa State student athletes such as Kalscheur.

“YSS has a strong history with Iowa State, with dozens of student athletes volunteering each year to help our youth and families. The YSS Ambassador Program is the perfect evolution of this partnership,” said Andrew Allen, President & CEO of YSS. “We’re pleased to welcome Gabe and work together to help Iowa’s youth stand strong.”

After transferring to Iowa State from Minnesota, Kalscheur started in 34 games last season. The Edina, Minnesota, native averaged 9.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His 22 points against Wisconsin in the NCAA Tournament helped Iowa State advance to the Sweet 16.

Kalscheur was named the NIT Season Tip-Off Most Valuable Player, a Big 12 Player of the Week, and two-time Big 12 Newcomer of the Week.

He was also named to the Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll; Chi Alpha Sigma, the national college athlete honor society; and the Farm Strong Squad, which honors one Iowa State athlete from each sport for their hard work, integrity, and dedication.

YSS’s mission is to provide hope and opportunity by putting kids first. YSS empowers youth by providing education to build healthy minds and bodies; counseling to overcome life’s challenges; and stability to focus on the future. Headquartered in Ames, YSS has locations across the state and tailors its services to fit the needs of each community.