PLAYproviding play for homeless youth in downtown los angles
We will provide skateboard equipment and coaching to homeless youth in downtown Los Angeles, using the existing park areas.
We will also provide mentoring and field trips to other existing parks and events.
What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?
Green space, park access, and trees
In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?
Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)
What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?
homelessI have worked in the inner city areas of Los Angeles since 1996 providing skateparks, skateboard events, equipment and school programs. My 1st school skatepark was a collaboration with PAL in 2000 at Berendo middle school during the Rampart scandals. It was a huge success and lead to Beyond the Bell opening 35 programs, Woodcraft Rangers approx 15 and Star Education dozens. LAUSD closed them a few years ago and we now have a pilot program opening with Lacer & Eduskate Foundation at Le Conte Middle School in Hollywood. Around 2006 PAL asked me to do a program near skidrow for the homeless kids. It started out great but then PAL dropped it. There is a need to get these kids engaged and having fun while exercising. There is no one to take them to "practices and games in regular sports. Skateboarding is great for kids that are on their own and they can connect at any skatepark and make friends all over the city/ country and as we see with Olympics the world.
Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.
We need funding for equipment and staff to set up the program which will take place in public parks and fiend trips to other parks and events.
Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.
When I started in 1996 Skateboarding was illegal. My work opened the 1st public skateparks in LA. They have proven a success as the city now has over 40 skateparks and 10,000 nationally. This will be a pilot program that Los Angeles can share nationwide. Los Angeles will be recognized as a leader in outreach to homeless youth.
What evidence do you have that this project, program, or initiative is or will be successful, and how will you define and measure success?
From skateboarding being illegal to being an Olympic sport I think it speaks for itself.
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?
Direct Impact: 100.0
Indirect Impact: 2,500.0