Yesterday, San Francisco Recreation and Park Department (RPD) joined professional skateboarder (and longtime friend of mine) Karl Watson in an outreach to the youth at the Tenderloin Children’s Recreation Center on Ellis Street. Watson and RPD staff spoke to youth about the importance of being active and pursuing their dreams.

The event was a kickoff for a new skateboarding program RPD is launching called “Shred N’ Butter.”

Founded by RPD staff member Daynin Gordon, “Shred N’ Butter” will help develop skateboarding for youth in various neighborhoods throughout San Francisco.

Daynin reached out to Watson for help after learning that many of the youth who signed up for the program did not have skateboards of their own. Watson and his charity organization, “Karl’s Causes,” helped out by donating 10 new skateboards and accessories to the program.

After presenting the skateboards, Watson and other local skateboarders took to the course and gave pointers to some of the beginner shredders, RPD staff included.  Watson’s performance was no doubt inspiring and moving for all who attended.

RPD’s “Shred N’ Butter” program begins this summer. For info, www.sfrecpark.org, or call Tim Roff, RPD Program Coordinator, at (415)666-7020.

Special thanks to Theo Palmer, Connie Chan and Karl Watson for inviting me to attend this most uplifting event.

More Photos HERE…