S.K.A.T.E. & Create is a four-week hybrid skate clinic and makerspace course that teaches kids skateboarding fundamentals while introducing the graphic design process which ends in a Culminating Experience celebration.
The project promotes a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle through exercise, mentorship, and creative expression. Students leave the course with individualized skateboarding instruction, graphic design knowledge, confidence/inspiration, new friends, and their own custom-designed skateboard!
"My son just found out today that the design he's been working on will actually be put on a real skateboard! We're just so blessed and so thankful to be a part of this community and this event!"
-Paul Sr., Parent
Skateboarding motivates kids to get exercise. It teaches them to overcome fears and various obstacles. Skateboarding provides an immersive experience that relieves stress, and it offers a friendship network. Our S.K.A.T.E. & Create program helps kids learn the basics of how to safely ride a skateboard within their skill level, all the while building a foundation for continued, alternative learning.
There is a natural connection between the tangible learning process of skating and artistic pursuits such as: photography, videography, graphic design, fashion, music, fabrication and many other aspects of creativity. S.K.A.T.E. & Create leverages this connection. Our program teaches kids the process of turning their imaginative concepts into real-world applications.
We are a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to all the health benefits of skateboarding.
"One of the things we like is the structure, and how organized it is... [you] have one hour of class and one hour of design. For the kids to see that when you draw/design something and have a deliverable, or an end product...that's gonna be huge for them!"
-Alfredo, Parent
Our goal is to design sustainable iterations of alternative learning to youth with the support of community and sponsorship. With your support, our programs will be offered for families in need throughout the Valley for years to come.
Special thanks to M3F (@m3ffest), KTR (@kidsthatrip), and our beloved community of skaters & volunteers for making this a reality.
Your involvement has been monumental in achieving success for our mission!
Video produced by @unheard.harmony