BoardsRescue.org: Giving Back Through Skateboarding
For some people, skateboarding is simply a cool and fun sport that they enjoy participating in. However, for others, it is a way for a better tomorrow. The non-profit group, Boards Rescue is a group of individuals, along with various sponsors that work together to help underprivileged kids through skateboarding.
Boards Rescue gives away free skateboards and safety equipment to children that come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Boys and girls who are at risk are eligible for the Boards Rescue program.
The non-profit organization was founded in northern California by Gary Holl, Judi Oyama and Andrew Huberman. Most of these individuals where life-long skateboarders and were acutely aware of the power and allure that skateboarding has and its? ability to influence the life of a young boy or girl. Consequently, the organization has set out to introduce it to younger kids in hopes that it would have a positive and profound influence on their lives as well.
Boards Rescue works with major manufacturers to provide free skateboards. Not only do they give away skateboards but they also pass out free safety equipment and teach kids how to be safe on their board. While the group works with corporate sponsors they also take donations from individuals. The groups is in constant need of money and skateboarding equipment such as decks, wheels, trucks, grip tape, helmets and elbow pads. You can make donation by visiting: BoardsResuce.org
Boards Rescue has a really great program going and they are reaching the people that they can. However, they can?t reach everyone. Other people have to do their part. This includes me and you. Take some time and brainstorm some ways that you can take your love of skateboarding and use it to help young kids who may be in a difficult place in their life or who may simply need someone to hang out with. Perhaps give one-on-one or group lessons. Teach them how to perform some simple tricks.
Having a fundraiser to raise monies for skateboards and safety equipment could be an endeavor that you take on as well so that you can buy skateboards for kids in your area who otherwise might not be able to afford but who might greatly benefit from it.
Consider creating a skateboarding club, where everyone meets once a week to talk about skateboarding and to of course ride. This gives kids in your area something positive to get involved in and something to look forward to.
If your city does not have public skate boarding parks, consider going before the city council and requesting that they build one. Be sure to be prepared to discuss the benefits of skateboarding and be ready to start a petition if necessary. Skateboarding is a really cool sport and can be of great benefit to many young persons. Because it can be so beneficial, it is great vehicle to use to help the underprivileged child or the one that doesn?t have a lot of options socially or recreationally. Remember, there are many things that you can do to help. Consider starting a skateboarding club, tutoring kids one-on-one or in groups and raising money to purchase skateboards and skating equipment for kids who may not be able to otherwise afford it. Giving back will not only help others, but will also help you feel better about yourself and the contribution that you are making to society.

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