I’ve been skateboarding my whole life, and I started noticing trash at our newly finished local skatepark. It frustrated me to see the park in that condition, so I realized I needed to step in.

Before every session, I take a walk through the park and clean up whatever I see. It’s a small effort, but it makes a big difference, keeping the park safe, open, and welcoming for everyone in the community. I’m inspired by skaters who care about the culture and spaces that brought us all together. They’ve shown me that even small actions can have a lasting impact.

The problem I’m hoping to solve is simple: I don’t want our park to close or become uninviting because of neglect. I want everyone, from beginners to longtime skaters, to have a clean, safe space to skate.

Contributing in this way gives me a sense of responsibility and pride. Seeing the park clean when I arrive, and knowing other skaters can enjoy it too, makes me feel like I’m giving back to something that’s given me so much.