Tony Hawk Foundation grants introduce new requirements.

December 15, 2011 (Vista, CA) - The Tony Hawk Foundation opens its Winter 2012 grant season today. The first opportunity of the new year to apply for a Tony Hawk Foundation grant, communities and advocacy groups across the nation will be vying for financial assistance to help build their skateparks, as well as the validation that comes with each grant award. Tony Hawk Foundation grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, and the foundation awards grants to about a dozen communities during each of its two annual grant seasons.

Skatepark projects must now feature cast-in-place concrete or permanent precast concrete designs to be eligible to apply for Tony Hawk Foundation grants. The Imperial Beach, California public skatepark features something for everyone—from street to bowls, and beginner to expert skaters. Imperial Beach received a Tony Hawk Foundation Grant in 2008 and opened in 2010.

New eligibility requirements will encourage applicants to aim for higher quality skateparks. Ramp-style parks made from wood, steel, or polymer structures will no longer be eligible for a grant from the Tony Hawk Foundation. Previously, these structures offered a less expensive, though temporary, solution to the immediate need to create skateparks. But a wider range of more durable concrete solutions has recently made the option of a permanent concrete skatepark possible with even the most modest skatepark budget.

Beginning with the Winter 2012 grant season, skatepark projects must feature cast-in-place concrete (shotcrete) or permanent precast concrete designs (that do not feature steel transition plates) to be eligible to apply for Tony Hawk Foundation grants.

Furthermore, the previous foundation policy of only allowing each community to apply for a grant a total of two times has been rescinded. Communities that have not previously been awarded a Tony Hawk Foundation grant may now continue to apply. Each applicant receives detailed feedback about their projects from Tony Hawk, foundation staff, and the Board Of Directors.

Tony Hawk Foundation grants are available for the construction of free, quality public skateparks serving at-risk youth in low-income communities in the U.S. The deadline to apply for a Tony Hawk Foundation Skatepark Grant for the Winter 2012 season is February 1, 2012.

The Tony Hawk Foundation believes that, like facilities for more traditional sports, skateparks should be free and accessible. The foundation favors grassroots projects that involve skaters in the planning and design of the skatepark, and that seek to build quality, permanent skateparks that don't require fees or memberships to use them. Full details about Tony Hawk Foundation grant criteria and the online grant application are available on the Foundation's Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

Since 2002, the Tony Hawk Foundation has awarded over $3.9-million in grants to 493 skatepark projects in 49 states. With 417 of those projects open and serving more than 3.5-million visitors annually, the Tony Hawk Foundation has helped fund more than eleven percent of the approximately 3,500 skateparks nationwide.

A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States-with an emphasis on the word “quality.” Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,972,350 to 493 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation's Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

Tony Hawk and Friends shred Vegas for the 3rd-annual DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks benefit.

Tony Hawk tips an Indy nosebone during the Vert Demo at Stand Up For Skateparks in Las Vegas. Photo: Jody Morris

November 8, 2011 (Vista, CA) – There’s never a dull moment when you have a Vert demo that includes Tony Hawk giving an awe-inspiring performance while 14-year old prodigy Mitchie Brusco holds his own with the likes of Elliot Sloan, Andy Macdonald, and Pierre Luc Gagnon “PLG”, Lyn-Z Adams Hawkins Pastrana, and BMX legend Mat Hoffman proving their pedigree on Tony’s personal ramp – all during Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, musician, and Tony Hawk Foundation Board Member Ben Harper’s rocking performance with his band.

The fun and excitement befitting “The Entertainment Capital of The World” was enjoyed by a crowd of 850 guests on Saturday at the 3rd Annual DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks benefit held at Red Rock Casino ~ Resort ~ Spa in Las Vegas.

Rubbing elbows with celebrities and their families – including Holly Madison, Carrot Top, David Copperfield, ‘Pawn Stars’ Rick Harrison, Alison Victoria, pro NASCAR driver Taylor Barton, Tillman the Skateboarding Dog, Travis Pastrana, Sal Masekela, Mike “Rooftop” Escamilla, Rodney Mullen, Mike Vallely, Ricardo Laguna, and actor, comedian Rob Riggle – guests came together to support the Tony Hawk Foundation’s mission to build free, quality public skateparks in low-income areas nationwide. Attendees enjoyed the family-oriented action-sports festival with games, great food, one-of-a-kind auction items, and lots of giveaways.

“It was our best Vegas event by far, thanks to Red Rock, Ben Harper and the level of talent on the ramp,” said Tony Hawk. “We also had some truly unique auction items that helped to raise good money for more skateparks. My kids had a blast!”

Through the generosity and support by those in attendance, the event was able to raise $640,000 for the Tony Hawk Foundation’s mission to provide at-risk youth with an opportunity to participate in a fun, safe and healthy activity, including $37,000 to help create a new public skatepark in the Las Vegas area. Funds raised through a live and silent auction – featuring the ultimate Jane’s Addiction meet and greet at The Joint, Dinner with Tony Hawk at the Simon Restaurant & Lounge, a Tony Hawk Edition 2012 Ford Explorer customized by Galpin Auto Sports and DUB, and a Roland Sands Design “Hawkized” Triumph Thruxton motorcycle – contributed significantly.

DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks was Co-Chaired by Tony Hawk and fellow THF Board Member and skate legend Mike Vallely. The Benefit Committee included prominent supporters such as Andre Agassi, Michael “Flea” Balzary, Ron Burkle, Chantal and Stephen Cloobeck, Jamie Lee Curtis, Patrick Dempsey, Jon Favreau, Perry Farrell, Leeza Gibbons, Brian Austin Green, Robin and Danny Greenspun, Ben Harper, Mat Hoffman, Terry Kennedy, Anthony Kiedis, Bobby Kotick, Chuck Liddell, Howie Mandel, Sal Masekela, Lance Mountain, Andrew and Trina Pascal, Andrew Reynolds, David Spade, Bill Walton, and Shaun White.

In true Stand Up For Skateparks fashion, a pledge drive was announced to benefit a local Las Vegas skatepark project. Youth and their parents from challenged communities throughout Las Vegas were in attendance as Tony Hawk made a pledge from the foundation and encouraged guests to purchase an autographed Tony Hawk Birdhouse pro-model skateboard in the Silent Auction, with 100% of proceeds going to a new skatepark in Las Vegas. Through November, you can also support this project and receive a signed Tony Hawk skateboard. Go to www.skatelasvegas.org to make your pledge.

Tony Hawk launched his Stand Up For Skateparks fundraiser in 2004 with the goal to increase the number of safe, legal, healthy recreational outlets for youth in low-income communities across the U.S. To-date, the Tony Hawk Foundation has helped fund 493 public skateboard parks, which now service more than 3.5-million youth annually.
DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks was made possible through the support of Ex Drinks, Activision, Red Rock Casino ~ Resort ~ Spa, Kohl’s, Quiksilver Foundation, Tech Deck, and Sweetwater Video. To learn more about the benefit, please visit www.standupforskateparks.org.

A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States—with an emphasis on the word “quality.” Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,972,350 to 493 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation’s Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

The Grammy–winning musician and several X Games champions will perform to help raise critical funds to bring public skateparks to at-risk youth.

October 16, 2011 (Vista, CA) – Singer-songwriter, musician, and Tony Hawk Foundation Board Member Ben Harper will entertain guests at the upcoming third-annual DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks benefit in Las Vegas, hosted by the Tony Hawk Foundation in support of its mission to create free, quality skateparks for at-risk youth throughout the U.S. Harper will be joined on the bill by Tony Hawk and friends, who will ride Hawk’s personal ramp during an intimate Vert Demo.

Ben Harper will perform at the 3rd Annual DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks event on Nov. 5 in Las Vegas.

The DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks fundraiser will take place on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at Red Rock Casino ~ Resort ~ Spa in Las Vegas, NV. The family-oriented, carnival-style event will feature interactive activities, food, games, and live and silent auctions with one-of-a-kind items and opportunities. Ben Harper’s performance will be preceded by the Vert Demo, in which Hawk will share the ramp with top riders Andy Macdonald, Mat Hoffman, Pierre-Luc Gagnon, Elliot Sloan, Kevin Staab, and 14-year-old wunderkind Mitchie Brusco.

A committed member of the Tony Hawk Foundation Board of Directors, Harper will offer guests an illuminating, up-close and personal musical experience. He has earned two Grammys and just released a new album, Give Till It’s Gone. He is celebrated not only for his talent, but also for his activism and philanthropy, supporting a wide range of causes from the environment and at-risk youth to poverty and hunger.

Harper joins an impressive list of supporters of the Tony Hawk Foundation. Past performers include blink 182, Jane’s Addiction, Social Distortion, Rancid, Pennywise, X, and most recently The Black Keys, who performed at the 8th annual Tony Hawk Foundation event in Beverly Hills earlier this month.

DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks is Co-Chaired by Tony Hawk and fellow THF Board Member and skate legend Mike Vallely, with other notable supporters including Andre Agassi, Michael “Flea” Balzary, Ron Burkle, Chantal and Stephen Cloobeck, Jamie Lee Curtis, Patrick Dempsey, Jon Favreau, Perry Farrell, Leeza Gibbons, Brian Austin Green, Robin and Danny Greenspun, Ben Harper, Mat Hoffman, Terry Kennedy, Anthony Kiedis, Bobby Kotick, Chuck Liddell, Howie Mandel, Sal Masekela, Lance Mountain, Andrew and Trina Pascal, Andrew Reynolds, David Spade, Bill Walton, and Shaun White.

“I could not be more thrilled to take part in such an amazing cause,” said Ben Harper. “We often forget that today’s youth are America’s future and to empower them today is to build a better tomorrow.”

“I am proud that in only three years we've built this event to be a popular destination in a city known for great entertainment,” said Tony Hawk. “Families fly in from around the world to attend, and with Ben Harper playing and the list of top riders joining me on the ramp this year, the event won't disappoint. And best of all—it'll help us get more skateparks built for the kids who need them most.”

Hawk launched his foundation in 2002 with the goal to increase the number of safe, legal, healthy recreational outlets for our youth in low-income communities across the U.S. To-date, the Tony Hawk Foundation has helped fund 493 public skateboard parks in these communities, which now service 3.5-million youth annually. DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks is made possible through the support of Ex Drinks, Activision, Red Rock Casino ~ Resort ~ Spa, Kohl’s, Quiksilver Foundation, Tech Deck, and Sweetwater Video.

Information about DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks, including tickets and sponsorship opportunities, is available at www.standupforskateparks.org. There you can also view some one-of-a-kind auction items, including signed memorabilia, unique experiences, and much more.

For more information about the benefit and tickets, or to place a proxy bid on any of the amazing auction items, please contact Lily Schwimmer at lily@tonyhawkfoundation.org or (760) 477-2479. For media inquiries, please contact Kelly Reeves at kelly@klrpr.com or (949) 509-1888.

For further information on Ben Harper please contact Patrick Jordan, Red Light Management at patrick.jordan@redlightmanagement.com.

All funds raised during the DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks event go directly to the Tony Hawk Foundation and its programs to help bring free, quality public skateparks to youth who need them most.

A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States—with an emphasis on the word “quality.” Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,972,350 to 493 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation’s Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

Action sports descend upon Beverly Hills for 8th-annual Tony Hawk Foundation benefit.

10/5/11 (Vista, CA) – Within the span of an hour, a Vert Demo with Tony Hawk, Shaun White, Bucky Lasek, Mat Hoffman, Mitchie Brusco, and Lincoln Ueda was followed by an intimate set by the Grammy-winning duo The Black Keys. If you were there, you will remember it forever. If you weren’t, you have a chance to experience another memorable event in just a few weeks.

The DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks benefit took place Sunday at the home of Ron Burkle, Green Acres Estate, in Beverly Hills, California. In addition to the Vert Demo and The Black Keys performance, the family-oriented event featured interactive activities for kids of all ages, great food, and live and silent auctions. Auction items included a custom Triumph Scrambler 900 “Hawkized” by Roland Sands Design, a Tony Hawk Edition Customized Ford Explorer by Galpin Auto Sports and DUB, and autographed skateboard decks from Tony Hawk and other top pros like Chris Cole, Ryan Sheckler, Nyjah Huston, and Shaun White. Other auction items included a Kelly Slater-autographed surfboard, as well as autographed guitars from Jane’s Addiction, Green Day, and Rancid, plus luxury vacations and much more.

The benefit raised $755,000 for the Tony Hawk Foundation’s mission to build free public skateparks in low-income areas, providing local, at-risk youth an opportunity to participate in a fun, safe and healthy new activity.

DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks was Co-Chaired by Tony Hawk and fellow THF Board Member and skate legend Mike Vallely, with other notable supporters including Andre Agassi, Michael “Flea” Balzary, Ron Burkle, Chantal and Stephen Cloobeck, Jamie Lee Curtis, Patrick Dempsey, Jon Favreau, Perry Farrell, Leeza Gibbons, Brian Austin Green, Robin and Danny Greenspun, Ben Harper, Mat Hoffman, Terry Kennedy, Anthony Kiedis, Bobby Kotick, Chuck Liddell, Howie Mandel, Sal Masekela, Lance Mountain, Andrew and Trina Pascal, Andrew Reynolds, David Spade, Bill Walton, and Shaun White.

“It was our best event by far,” said Tony Hawk. “The auction items were one-of-a-kind, and the skate demo was one of the best sessions I have ever witnessed (or taken part in). The Black Keys were the icing on the cake—the crowd was in awe.”

Many celebrities and their families were among the guests, including Mark Wahlberg, Jon Favreau, Jamie Lee Curtis, Bill Walton, Perry and Etty Farrell, Chuck Liddell, Kat Von D, Mike ”Rooftop” Escamilla, Fred Durst, Rob Machado, Tillman the Skateboarding Dog, dance troupe Chi-Town’s Finest Breakers, Kevin Staab, Jason Ellis, Jamie Thomas, Stevie Williams, Holly Robinson Peete, Lance Mountain, Chris Cole, Stefan Lessard, Rodney Mullen, and Legoland’s Darth Vader.

In keeping with tradition, a pledge drive was announced at the event to benefit a local skatepark project. Youth from the challenged Canoga Park community in Los Angeles were present as Tony and event Co-Chair Mike Vallely rallied the crowd to support their skatepark. Donations for this important project are still being accepted. Through October, contribute $300 or more to the skatepark effort in Canoga Park and receive an autographed Tony Hawk skateboard deck. See the video about this project and make your contribution at www.skatecanogapark.org.

The Tony Hawk Foundation launched its Stand Up For Skateparks fundraiser in 2004 to support its mission to help create free, safe, legal skateparks for youth in low-income communities across the U.S. To-date the Tony Hawk Foundation has helped fund 493 public skateboard parks in these communities, which now service 3.5-million youth annually.

DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks was made possible through the support of Ex Drinks, Activision, Mondrian Los Angeles, Kohl’s, T-Mobile USA, Quiksilver Foundation, and Tech Deck.

If you missed the Beverly Hills date, DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks travels to the Red Rock Casino ~ Resort ~ Spa in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, November 5, 2011. More information about tickets and sponsorship opportunities is available at www.standupforskateparks.org. There you can also view some one-of-a-kind auction items, including signed memorabilia, unique experiences, and much more. To place a proxy bid on one of the amazing auction items, please contact Lily Schwimmer at lily@tonyhawkfoundation.org or (760) 477-2479. For media inquiries, please contact Kelly Reeves at kelly@klrpr.com or (949) 509-1888.

A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States—with an emphasis on the word “quality.” Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,972,350 to 493 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation’s Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

Rock duo will entertain at Tony Hawk Foundation’s 8th-annual benefit in Beverly Hills.

9/15/11 (Vista, CA) – Grammy winning artists The Black Keys will headline the upcoming DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks benefit hosted by the Tony Hawk Foundation in support of its mission to create free, quality, public skateparks for at-risk youth throughout the U.S.

The DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks benefit will take place on Sunday, October 2, 2011 at the home of Ron Burkle, Green Acres Estate, in Beverly Hills, California. The family-oriented event will feature a Vert Demo with Tony Hawk and other icons of skateboarding and BMX on Tony’s personal ramp. The event will also offer interactive activities for kids of all ages, great food, and live and silent auctions. The Black Keys will perform in the program for an incomparably intimate and entertaining experience. The band is currently working on their seventh album with producer Danger Mouse.

The Black Keys join an impressive list of supporters of the Tony Hawk Foundation. Past performers include blink 182, Jane’s Addiction, Social Distortion, Rancid, Pennywise, and X. DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks is Co-Chaired by Tony Hawk and fellow THF Board Member and skate legend Mike Vallely, with other notable supporters including Andre Agassi, Michael “Flea” Balzary, Ron Burkle, Chantal and Stephen Cloobeck, Jamie Lee Curtis, Patrick Dempsey, Jon Favreau, Perry Farrell, Leeza Gibbons, Brian Austin Green, Robin and Danny Greenspun, Ben Harper, Mat Hoffman, Terry Kennedy, Anthony Kiedis, Bobby Kotick, Chuck Liddell, Howie Mandel, Sal Masekela, Lance Mountain, Andrew and Trina Pascal, Andrew Reynolds, David Spade, Bill Walton, and Shaun White.

“Rock-n-roll and skateboarding tend to go hand-in-hand,” said Patrick Carney of The Black Keys. “We’re excited to be a part of this amazing event and support such an exceptional cause.”

“The Black Keys were my first choice for bands to play Stand Up For Skateparks this year,” said Tony Hawk. “I am honored and excited that they accepted my invitation and look forward to an awesome performance.”

The Tony Hawk Foundation launched its Stand Up For Skateparks fundraiser in 2004 to support its mission to help create free, safe, legal skateparks for youth in low-income communities across the U.S. To-date the Tony Hawk Foundation has helped fund 493 public skateboard parks in these communities, which now service 3.5-million youth annually. DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks is made possible through the support of Ex Drinks, Activision, Mondrian Los Angeles, Kohl’s, T-Mobile USA, Quiksilver Foundation, and Tech Deck.

Information about DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks, including tickets and sponsorship opportunities, is available at www.standupforskateparks.org. There you can also view some one-of-a-kind auction items, including signed memorabilia, unique experiences, and much more.

For more information about the benefit and tickets, please contact Lily Schwimmer at lily@tonyhawkfoundation.org or (760) 477-2479. For media inquiries, please contact Kelly Reeves at kelly@klrpr.com or (949) 509-1888.

For further information on The Black Keys, please contact Mary Moyer, Sacks & Co, mary@sacksco.com, (212) 741-1000.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation’s Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

Tony Hawk Foundation launches helmet program and announces latest grants to build skateparks.

9/9/11 (Vista, CA) – The Tony Hawk Foundation has launched a new initiative to complement its skatepark-grant program and help kids skate safe. The program will put helmets on heads at the more than 400 skateparks the foundation has helped to open across the U.S. And after reviewing dozens of projects, the THF Board Of Directors also announced the latest recipients of grants to help build public skateparks.

The Donate A Skate helmet-and-board program distributes skateboards and helmets to youth in communities where the foundation has helped to open a skatepark. With the goal of encouraging young skaters to use the skateparks safely, and to reach those youth whose families could not otherwise afford the equipment, to-date the foundation has distributed over 400 helmets and 200 skateboards to youth at skateparks that received Tony Hawk Foundation grants.

The Donate A Skate program is funded through donations from Birdhouse Skateboards, Bell Helmets, and individuals who make contributions through the foundation’s Web site. To help THF equip kids with new helmets and skateboards, make a donation at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

In addition to this new initiative, the foundation’s decade of skatepark development continues with the announcement of the latest communities to receive grants to help fund their projects. With the economy causing cuts or delays to many public projects, it was reassuring to see dozens of skatepark efforts active and applying for a THF grant over the Summer. Ultimately the Board Of Directors chose twelve projects, awarding a total of $100,000.

Summer 2011 Tony Hawk Foundation Skatepark Grants

$15,000
Antelope, South Dakota

$10,000
Fort Hall, Idaho
Gold Hill, Oregon
Marquette, Michigan
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
San Francisco, California
Sisters, Oregon

$5,000
Brattleboro, Vermont
Lovington, Illinois
Monte Rio, California
Titonka, Iowa
Two Harbors, Minnesota


The Board also elected to change the longstanding policy limiting the number of times a community may apply for a THF Grant. Previously, communities could not apply more than twice, but under the new policy they may continue to apply if they have not previously been awarded a grant. The goal is to encourage skatepark projects that are very close to meeting THF Grant criteria to continue improving their plans. Communities that have already applied twice and were informed that they are no longer eligible to apply for THF grants may now submit new applications.

The next deadline to apply for a Tony Hawk Foundation skatepark grant is February 1, 2012. The online application will be available in January. Details are online at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States—with an emphasis on the word "quality." Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,972,350 to 493 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation's Web site at www.standupforskateparks.org.

Annual Tony Hawk Foundation benefits in Beverly Hills and Las Vegas sure to sell out—again.


8/12/11 (Vista, CA) – Now in its eighth year, the Tony Hawk Foundation’s annual benefit has become a must-see event for families across the U.S. Attracting visitors from as far as New York, the DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks event continues to build momentum—and raise critical funds—for the Tony Hawk Foundation’s mission to bring free, quality skateparks to at-risk youth across the U.S.

DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks takes place Sunday, October 2, 2011 at Green Acres Estate, the home of Ron Burkle, in Beverly Hills, California. The exclusive event will feature games, activities, food, live and silent auctions, a special musical guest, and a Vert Demo by Tony Hawk and an all-star cast of pro skateboarders and BMX riders on Tony’s personal ramp.

With entirely its own character, the Las Vegas DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks benefit will land at the Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa on Saturday, November 5, 2011. This will be the third year that Stand Up For Skateparks has come to Las Vegas, and promises to be the most incredible yet.

Both the Beverly Hills and Las Vegas events will be Co-Chaired by Tony Hawk and fellow THF Board Member and skate legend Mike Vallely. Joining them on the event’s Benefit Committee are Andre Agassi, Michael “Flea” Balzary, Ron Burkle, Chantal and Stephen Cloobeck, Jamie Lee Curtis, Patrick Dempsey, Jon Favreau, Perry Farrell, Leeza Gibbons, Brian Austin Green, Robin and Danny Greenspun, Ben Harper, Mat Hoffman, Terry Kennedy, Anthony Kiedis, Bobby Kotick, Chuck Liddell, Howie Mandel, Sal Masekela, Lance Mountain, Andrew and Trina Pascal, Andrew Reynolds, David Spade, Bill Walton, and Shaun White.

“Stand Up For Skateparks has grown immensely over the last eight years, and we are not slowing down,” says Tony Hawk. “There is more fun in store for our Beverly Hills and Las Vegas events in 2011. I can’t wait.”

DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks was launched in Los Angeles in 2004, and has played a critical role in helping the Tony Hawk Foundation bring quality, accessible skateparks to youth in 481 communities nationwide. Stand Up For Skateparks is also made possible through the support of Ex Drinks, Mondrian Los Angeles, Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa, Activision, Quiksilver Foundation, Tech Deck, Kohl’s, Sweetwater Video, and T-Mobile USA.

Information about DaGeDar Presents Stand Up For Skateparks, including tickets and sponsorship opportunities, is available at www.standupforskateparks.org. There you can also view some one-of-a-kind auction items, including signed memorabilia, unique experiences, and much more!

A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States—with an emphasis on the word "quality." Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,872,350 to 481 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation's Web site at www.standupforskateparks.org.

7/26/11 (Vista, CA) – August 19 come to PETCO Park for Tony Hawk Foundation Night with the San Diego Padres. Yes, folks, baseball celebrates skateboarding! A portion of proceeds will benefit THF.

Before the Padres take on the Florida Marlins, Tony will take the field to throw out the Ceremonial First Pitch. Plus it's Tony Hawk bobblehead night! The first 5,000 fans who purchase tickets through the link below, or take advantage of the limited luxury suite opportunities THF is offering, will get their own TH Bobblehead.

Meet Tony, watch the game from a special luxury suite, and get your own TH bobblehead! This special opportunity is only available directly from THF--contact Lily Schwimmer at 760-477-2479 (lily@tonyhawkfoundation.org). This VIP experience also includes the opportunity to watch the fireworks show after the game from the field.

Tickets for regular seats that include the amazing Tony Hawk bobblehead are available from www.padres.com/tonyhawk.

See you at the game!

Tony Hawk Foundation annual newsletter out now.

7/6/11 (Vista, CA) – The 2011 Tony Hawk Foundation newsletter has hit the mailboxes of THF supporters across the country. Now in its second year, Skatepark Insider includes dozens of stats and other news about the work of the Tony Hawk Foundation and its mission to bring free, quality, public skateparks to at-risk youth in the U.S.

Skatepark Insider also features a letter from Tony himself, photos of some THF-funded skateparks that have opened recently, and a special featurette on the groundbreaking skate plaza in St. Cloud, Minnesota and the 14-year-old skater who got it built.

To receive a copy of Skatepark Insider, e-mail your name and address to events@tonyhawkfoundation.org, or download the PDF.

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A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States—with an emphasis on the word "quality." Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,872,350 to 481 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation's Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

Atlanta, Georgia’s first public skatepark gets surprise visit on opening day.

Tony Hawk helps celebrate the grand opening of the 18,000-square-foot Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark—Atlanta, Georgia's first, with a backside ollie over the bowl. Photo: Miki Vuckovich

6/16/11 (Vista, CA) – After more than a decade of promoting the idea of a free, public skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia, skaters there realized the fruits of their labor on Saturday with the opening of the city’s first public skatepark in the Historic Fourth Ward neighborhood. But the already jubilant atmosphere was further boosted by a message that morning from Tony Hawk, via his 2.4-million-Follower-strong Twitter feed, that he was coming to join the party.

The Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark was built as part of Atlanta’s BeltLine initiative, a citywide park development that will connect several neighborhoods along 22 miles of trails, walking paths, and other park amenities. The skatepark concept was added when BeltLine acquired land that skaters had been using as a makeshift skatepark for the past decade. Rather than evicting the skaters wholesale, BeltLine officials embraced their need for a place to skate and included it in the design for the park masterplan.

The unique public/private approach to funding this project, as well as the inclusion of the skaters in planning the skatepark, led the Tony Hawk Foundation Board Of Directors to award the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark its top grant award early last year.

“This park is a great example of what the Atlanta BeltLine is doing across Atlanta—bringing people together in amazing new public spaces that will serve us for generations to come,” said Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. President and CEO Brian Leary. “We’re extremely grateful that Tony Hawk recognized the work we have all put into this park by supporting it financially and participating in the grand opening with the community.”

The $25,000 THF grant paid for only a small part of the 18,000-square-foot skatepark, but the ambition and precedent this project represents wasn’t lost on Hawk, who wanted to see it for himself. Incidentally, of the 481 skatepark projects THF has helped fund since 2002, the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark is the 400th to open.

“It was an honor to take part in Atlanta's skatepark opening, and I believe it will be a great addition to the BeltLine project,” said Hawk. “I hope the success and popularity of the park will inspire the city to provide additional, similar facilities for their youth.”

“Tony’s presence was a perfect addition to the event,” says Thomas Taylor, Owner of Atlanta’s Stratosphere Skateboards shop and longtime proponent of the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark. “As far as the skatepark itself, we weren't expecting something so awesome. As a skate community, we would like to thank Rob Brawner and everyone from the BeltLine Partnership for their dedication to this project. It was a perfect day!”

Skaters and BeltLine officials hope this just the first of several skateparks in Atlanta—all linked by skateable paths along the 22-mile-long BeltLine park. For the moment, though, the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark is poised to serve the community well, and promises to attract many more visitors to the neighborhood. Based on the hundreds who showed up for the grand opening, it’s off to a great start.

The Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark is located at 830 Willoughby Way Northeast, Atlanta, Georgia 30312.

A charitable, non-profit organization, the Tony Hawk Foundation was established in 2002 by its namesake, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, to promote and provide funds for high-quality public skateparks in low-income areas throughout the United States—with an emphasis on the word "quality." Since then, the Foundation has awarded $3,872,350 to 481 communities. The Foundation focuses on working with local officials and grassroots, community-based organizations that plan to hire designers and contractors with strong experience designing and building skateparks.

The Tony Hawk Foundation was established by a gift from Tony Hawk. Its directors raise additional funds through events, industry donations, and continuing contributions from Tony and other entities. In addition to skateparks, the Foundation also makes donations to other children-related charities, as chosen by its Board Of Directors. For more information or to make a donation, visit the Foundation's Web site at www.tonyhawkfoundation.org.

Tony Hawk addresses the crowd at the Grand Opening of the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on 6/11/11. Photo by Marc Mauldin

Tony Hawk lifts an invert over the Flow Bowl at the Grand Opening of the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on 6/11/11. Photo by Miki Vuckovich

Local skaters at the Grand Opening of the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on 6/11/11. Photo by Miki Vuckovich

Overview of the Flow Bowl at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on opening day--6/11/11. Photo by Miki Vuckovich

Locals wait their turn to skate the new Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on 6/11/11. Photo by Miki Vuckovich

Overview of the Beginner Area at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on opening day--6/11/11. Photo by Miki Vuckovich

The Street Section of the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on opening day--6/11/11. Photo by Miki Vuckovich

The Grand Opening of the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark attracted skaters and residents of all ages. Photo by Marc Mauldin

Overview of the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark in Atlanta, Georgia on opening day--6/11/11. Photo by Miki Vuckovich