Board Rescue

BOARD RESCUE is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing skateboards and safety equipment to organizations that work with underprivileged youth. The organization was started by founder GARY HOLL, who attributes skateboarding for a significant portion of his childhood development. "Skateboarding has taught me many things and it has introduced me to many people," Holl states in an interview with ACTION SPORTS NOW, "I had to figure out a way to give back to skateboarding what it has given to me."

True to his word, Board Rescue has made a significant impact on youth organizations in need of the development that Holl gained from skateboarding. The organization has provided a tremendous amount of equipment to underserved programs, facilitating youth engagement and building stronger bonds within local communities.

None of the members of the Board Rescue team are paid, and the entire model of the operation is dependent on partnerships with skateboard companies and donations from individuals. Some of the partnerships Board Rescue has managed to make over the past five years include some blue-chip skating companies such as Independent Trucks, Powell Peralta, Creature, and Santa Cruz. The result is a steady inflow of equipment that the team can pass off to participating local programs.

The beauty of the program lies in Holl's commitment to his belief that skateboarding is truly a platform that can engage and teach youth valuable lessons that can help them achieve their future goals. Self-confidence, flexibility, social interaction, dedication, and a healthy lifestyle are some of the values Holl is trying to bring to underserved communities, but if you ask him what the ultimate goal is for Board Rescue there isn't a clear end. In Holl's words, "I think Board Rescue is making a change in many kids' lives today. If we could continue to grow the organization each year and provide the opportunity to skate to underprivileged and/or at-risk kids, then we will have made a positive change."

Check out the video below that illustrates the impact that the organization has on local communities and HEAD OVER TO THEIR SITE if you want to support their mission.