It’s our job as adults to empower youth in any way we can. The Tony Hawk Foundation is just one of those amazing organizations that does just that. Pro-skateboarder and philanthropist Tony Hawk created this foundation to enrich the lives of American youth and provide them with unforgettable opportunities. Now, it’s our turn to help make Tony’s dream a reality.
What the Foundation is All About
Here is the foundation’s mission statement, from their website: “The Tony Hawk Foundation seeks to foster lasting improvements in society, with an emphasis on supporting and empowering youth. Through special events, grants, and technical assistance, the Foundation supports recreational programs with a focus on the creation of public skateboard parks in low-income communities. The Foundation favors programs that clearly demonstrate that funds received will produce tangible, ongoing, positive results.”
Why are Community Skateparks Important?
Not every kid thrives in team sports. Not every kid has the opportunity to even join a team sport. Skateboarding offers kids an opportunity to participate in a sport that is athletic, individual and open to everyone. Skateboarding, like any other sport, can help build the self-esteem and confidence that will reach beyond the skatepark. Additionally, skateparks provide skateboarders with a safe and communal place to skate, as opposed to busy streets and prohibited zones. Building skateparks in low-income communities, for instance, also provides a safe and beautiful recreational area where at-risk kids can spend their free time.
How You Can Help
If you’re interested in empowering kids and low-income communities through the creation of skateparks, then please take the time to visit the Tony Hawk Foundation site (link below) and donate what you can. Join Tony Hawk in his mission to provide kids with a second home – the skatepark.
