Transforming Lives Through Skateboarding

For many underserved kids, opportunities to thrive are limited. That’s where Pushin’ Forward steps in. This nonprofit organization is using skateboarding as a tool for youth empowerment, resilience, and positive change.

Founded by Donald “Coach” Cooley, Pushin’ Forward provides free skateboards, helmets, and mentorship to kids who need it most. Their mission goes far beyond tricks and flips — it’s about creating safe spaces, building confidence, and teaching life lessons that last.

The Mission Behind Pushin’ Forward

At its core, Pushin’ Forward is more than a skateboarding program. It’s a movement dedicated to breaking cycles of poverty, violence, and hopelessness through the power of community.

Through events, workshops, and outreach programs, the organization:

• Distributes skateboards and safety gear to underserved youth.

• Partners with schools, churches, and local community organizations.

• Offers mentorship that builds discipline, resilience, and confidence.

• Integrates mental health awareness and life skills into every session.
   

Why Skateboarding Matters

For the youth who take part, a skateboard is more than just a piece of wood and wheels — it’s a gateway to confidence, creativity, and freedom.

• Skateboarding teaches perseverance: fall down, get back up, and try again.

• It builds self-belief by giving kids tangible achievements.

• It creates positive community connections, replacing risky paths with supportive networks.

Every push forward is a step toward a brighter future.

Impact on Communities

Since its founding, Pushin’ Forward has changed lives across Los Angeles and beyond.

Teachers report better classroom engagement. Parents see children with renewed confidence. Communities witness empty spaces turning into places of joy, energy, and growth.

Most importantly, kids themselves feel valued, connected, and inspired. That’s the power of youth empowerment in action.

How You Can Help

The success of Pushin’ Forward depends on people like you. With your support, the organization can expand its reach and impact even more lives.

Here’s how you can contribute:

• Donate: Every contribution provides skateboards, helmets, and safe programming.

• Volunteer your time as a mentor or event organizer.

• Partner with the nonprofit to bring programs into new schools and communities.

Keep Pushin’ Forward

Pushin’ Forward proves that a skateboard can be more than just a toy — it can be a lifeline, a mentor, and a message of hope. With every push, a child learns resilience. With every fall, they learn courage. With every rise, they discover their own potential.

Now is the time to Donate and be part of a movement that’s changing lives one push at a time.