10% of every board sale goes to funding of the Small Steps for Compassion Skateboarding Community Project.
Small Steps for Compassion is a non-profit organization dedicated to "inspiring global change through community transformation in Tanzania, Africa". There are many projects the organization has completed, such as, creating a local school with over 350 students, a children's home with 25 girls, a local well, fish pond, bakery, etc.
In December of 2019, I headed the project with Small Steps for Compassion to build a skatepark for the local community and school at Small Steps for Compassion. It was completed at the end of January 2020. We partnered with Wonders Around The World who build skateparks around the globe for communities in need . Donate for Skate was also key in the donation of so much skateboarding equipment for the community. It would not have been possible without them and I am so grateful for all of the team involved.
Many have asked why a skatepark is beneficial. The skateboarding community is one of the most supportive communities I have ever come in contact with. Skateboarding will give everyone around a new outlet and tear down walls of exclusivity that is ever present in everyday life. Skateboarding is for everyone and it doesn’t matter where you come from or how wealthy you are, but skateboarding is able to connect individuals in a unique way regardless of their background.
There will be much more to come in the future as supporting the skate community around Arusha, Tanzania will be an ongoing objective at Small Steps for Compassion. I’m excited to see what is to come for the country of Tanzania.
There will be many more future trips and opportunities to volunteer and serve the skate community around Small Steps for anyone interested.
The skatepark is currently being overseen and run with daily clinics, skateboarding classes, and lessons by two hired local Tanzanians with a deep passion for skateboarding. The park needs continued funding to pay the local skate instructors, park upkeep, and skateboarding equipment.
For those wanting to see updates on the park, check out @smallsteps_skatepark on Instagram.