Who We Are
Andrew “Pokeylo” Mares
Andrew was born and raised in Los Angeles. He attended multiple schools in his youth and as a result, had a troubled childhood. He started handing out skateboards in his spare time whenever he took his son to the skateparks. He started the organization in hopes of creating a safe community for kids and to help keep children busy with healthy hobbies and activities. He serves as the President of the organization and does a majority of the outreach at the skateparks. His son, Ryan, is actively involved with the organization and is often times by Andrew’s side when they hand out equipment. Andrew lives in Pasadena.
Mission Statement:
The YoungLo Skate Project serves underprivileged youth in the Greater Los Angeles area. The organization gifts new skateboard equipment as well as proper safety equipment to children in need in hopes of encouraging confidence and self-esteem in young children by developing new skills.
We strive to provide opportunities for children, who may otherwise be considered “at-risk,” with the chance to form healthy relationships with other children as well as promote healthy habits outdoors.
Andrew “Pokeylo” Mares, Chris Mares, and Anna Zmood
What We Do
01.
— We Find & Fund
We travel to various skate parks in the Greater Los Angeles area and find kids who are working hard on their skating skills. We then donate various skate equipment (boards, shoes, wheels, grip tape, etc.) to a random kid.
02.
— We Build Networks
We network with educators, law enforcement, and local businesses to help build a community where kids may safely express themselves.
03.
— We Strengthen
We strengthen children by teaching values such as perseverance, respect, and kindness.
04.
— We Educate
We teach children healthy habits as well as encourage community involvement whether it be through school programs, acts of kindness, or law enforcement engagement. We also motivate students to excel in their academics through giveaways for attendance and grades.
05.
— We Provide Care
During the hot summer months as well as after school, we provide water and healthy snacks to the kids at the skate parks. We also hold giveaways for basic clothing necessities.
06.
— We Have Fun
Through all of our different projects and collaborations, we of course make sure everyone is having fun! Through friendly competition in our tournaments to just hanging out with the community, we hope the kids we work with are enjoying what they do.
FAQ
What inspired us to start this community?
Andrew was inspired by his son, Ryan, who is an avid skateboarder. They would go to skate parks to spend time together and it was Ryan’s idea to help out the other skaters around the park.
How can I help?
We have multiple ways to get involved, either through monetary donations, equipment, gift cards, etc. Please see our Donate page for more information.
Are my donations tax deductible?
Yes! All donations are tax deductible. You will receive a donation receipt in January of the tax year (receipts for tax year 2022 will be sent January 2023).
Federal Tax ID/EIN: 84-2676481
Partners
