For many kids living in underserved communities, it can be easy to feel trapped or insignificant. Opportunities to do something special don’t happen nearly enough. That’s where Pushin’ Forward steps in. This nonprofit organization uses skateboarding as a tool for empowering young people, teaching resilience, and showing kids that they can achieve incredible things.
Founded by Donald “Coach” Cooley, Pushin’ Forward provides free skateboards, helmets, and mentorship to kids who need it most. But their mission extends far beyond tricks and flips — it’s about creating safe spaces, building confidence, and allowing kids to envision a life that isn’t bound by fear, poverty, or limitations.
Real Results
Since its founding, Pushin’ Forward has changed the lives of young people across Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia and cities across America – and actual positive changes are happening.
“We have teachers reporting better classroom engagement. We have parents noticing that their kids have more confidence. Then we have communities that get to see these empty, neglected spaces transform into places of joy, energy, and upliftment,” Coach Cooley shares proudly.
Most importantly, the children feel valued, connected, and inspired. They’re finding the courage to try new things, and that’s a mindset shift that can change the direction of someone’s life. That’s the most powerful gift that Pushin’ Forward provides.
Real Impact
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.
- They hold outreach programs to distribute skateboards and safety gear to underserved youth.
- They partner with schools, churches, and local community organizations to throw events and workshops.
- They offer mentorship to help children build discipline, resilience, and confidence.
- They integrate mental health awareness and life skills into every session.
These are life-changing skills and programs that are often out of reach for youth in these areas. Pushin’ Forward provides them for free.
The Skateboard Effect
Because of his own life challenges, wins, and lessons, Coach Cooley understands something powerful:
For the kids 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 providing kids with tangible achievements.
- It creates positive community connections, replacing risky paths with support systems.
Every push forward is a step toward a brighter future.
How You Can Help
The success of Pushin’ Forward depends on people who want to be a part of the solution, like you. With your support, Pushin’ Forward can expand its reach and impact the lives of thousands more children.
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.
Let’s Keep Pushin’ Forward
Pushin’ Forward proves that a skateboard can be more than just a toy — it can be a lifeline. With every push, a child learns resilience. With every fall, they learn courage. With every rise, they discover their own potential.
Donate and be part of a movement that’s changing the lives of our youth, one push at a time.
