Why I Started Skate with Heart

By Tristan, Founder of Skate with Heart

I still remember the first time I stepped on a skateboard. It felt like freedom—like I could go anywhere, be anyone, and express myself in a way I never had before. Skating gave me confidence, courage, and creativity. It became more than just a sport—it became a part of who I am.

When I started my own skateboard brand, Atticus Skateboards, I was focused on building something cool that reflected my style and passion. But as I spent more time at the skatepark, I noticed something that didn’t sit right with me: a lot of kids didn’t have boards. Some shared one between three people. Some just watched from the side because they couldn’t afford gear or didn’t feel safe enough to join in.

That’s when I knew I wanted to do more than just sell skateboards. I wanted to give them away—to kids who really needed them.

When considering ideas for my Eagle Scout project, I decided to start something bigger: a nonprofit called Skate with Heart. The idea was simple—get boards and safety gear into the hands of kids who need them, and create a community where everyone feels included, supported, and seen.

With help from my mom and co-founder, Lauren, we launched Skate with Heart to provide gear, free skate clinics, and a youth leadership team that helps other kids feel like they belong. Every board we give away is a chance for a kid to try something new, make new friends, and feel confident being themselves.

Starting a charity at 13 hasn’t been easy. There’s been paperwork, planning, and a lot of late nights. But every time I see a kid smile after landing their first trick or putting on their first helmet, I know it’s worth it.

Skate with Heart is just getting started, and I’m so excited to see where we roll next.

Thanks for believing in the mission—and for helping more kids skate with heart.
– Tristan