This August young people in Chard worked with a team of volunteers from local churches to put together a Scoot and Skate Jam to raise money to repair the skate park. Not only did they have lots of fun, but they also managed to raise more than £400.
The event came about as a result of pioneering work undertaken by the team in Chard who are working to build relationships with young people in their own contexts and environments.
Bath and Wells Youth Pioneer in Chard, Tom Tame said, “Over the past year, we have been running weekly detached youth work sessions at the skatepark, which has led to the young people wanting to do something for their local park that involves the community and raises money to improve the skate park.
“The hope is that this will lead to more events at the skatepark in the future, resulting in deeper relationships being developed and presenting new opportunities for the community in Chard forming at the skate park to explore faith together in fresh and exciting ways.”
With the sun shining, a host of activities for everyone to do, and lots of support from the local community, the day was a great success, There was a BBQ, tuck shop, bike servicing and more. Local skate organisations such as Wave Games in Taunton and South West Skate Ramps came along to help judge the competitions for scooters and skaters, they also provided prizes for the winners and supplied additional skate ramps for use on the day.
At the end of the day the young people had raised £450 which will go towards funding the necessary repairs to make the park safer and accessible for all ages and skill levels.
Tom praised the young people for their hard work and determination, "It shows how much the young people are invested in making the skate park a safe and welcoming environment for everyone."