The Seal Beach Lions Club recently announced the return of Skateboarding for Autism. The event will be held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, April 6, at Marina Park in Seal Beach, to kick off Autism Awareness Month.
“I am thrilled to acknowledge Skateboarding for Autism, Seal Beach. This event showcases the spirit of our community with its support for those with autism,” said District Two Council Member Thomas Moore, former mayor of Seal Beach
Skateboarding for Autism, pioneered in 2022 by Seal Beach resident and Lion Ed Solis, received acclaim as the Project of the Year by District 4L4 of the California Lions Clubs. District 4L4 is the entire Orange County Territory.
“The goal is to use skateboarding as a vehicle so children can build confidence and take that with them—in school, in social circles and with family dynamics at home,” said Solis.
This pop-up skate park offers one-to-one skateboard instruction for kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Participants and their families will enjoy a complimentary lunch and have the chance to win exciting prizes through a raffle.
Seal Beach Won for Best Large Club Service project for all of California Lions Clubs For Skateboarding For Autism. The Lions, in a press release, congratulated Chair/Lion Ed Solis and past Lion president Scott Weir.
The inaugural event in 2022 united professional skateboarders with ASD children and their families in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Santa Cruz Skateboards provided complete skateboards and components, accompanied by protective pads and Helmets by 187 Killer Pads. Whether it was their first time on a skateboard or they were seasoned riders, all participants found joy in the Skateboarding for Autism experience.
Solis conceived the idea after hearing from parents seeking a more serene space for their children to enjoy skateboarding. Skateboarding for Autism 2022 featured the legendary Bones Brigade Member Lance Mountain, and plans for 2024 include the participation of more skateboarding icons.
“This event brought happiness, fun and encouragement to several children and their parents, giving them an opportunity to experience skateboarding in a safe, supervised environment,” said Mary Hollen, president of the Seal Beach Lions Club.
