Keeping kids off the street one skateboard at a time
We care about our community
Who We Are
YoungLo Team
Passionate, Caring, and friendly
Read more on the team below.
Our Approach
We Facilitate Safe Learning Spaces
— 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.
Anna Zmood
Anna was born in Kazakhstan and moved with her family to the U.S. when she was one year old. She grew up in a suburb just north of Cincinnati, Ohio. She graduated from the University of Cincinnati. After graduation, Anna joined the Air Force, where she met her husband, and fellow YoungLo Skate Project founder, Chris. After serving, Anna, Chris, and their two kids moved to Los Angeles where they founded the non-profit with Chris’ brother, Andrew. Anna serves as the Secretary and is responsible for the administerial duties for the organization. Anna now lives in Northern Virginia, just outside of Washington D.C.
Chris Mares
Chris is also an LA native. He grew up in Eagle Rock and after graduating from Eagle Rock High School, enlisted into the Air Force where he met his wife, Anna. After hearing from his brother about his skatepark adventures, he and Anna realized Andrew could really make something special out of this idea. The three of them jointly decided to start YoungLo Skate Project together where Chris serves as the Treasurer and is responsible for all the organization’s finances. Chris lives in Northern Virginia with Anna and their two kids where they both take care of the “behind the scenes” duties for the organization.
01.
— Our Mission
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.
02.
— Our Vision
Keeping kids off the street one skateboard at a time. We want to encourage healthy and safe hobbies for at risk children.
03.
— Our Story
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 parks.
Partners
