It all began in 2004 with two visionaries who had a desire to give youth a place to belong and grow in their faith. Jonny Nelson, a 16 year old skater with a passion for evangelism and discipleship and Randy Monroe, a business man who wanted to invest in the community’s youth, partnered with the Louis Palau Association. The park served as a positive place for some 3000 youth before funding ran out and JSAW was forced to move in 2007. The skate park was split up and donated to outfit two summer camps in northern Minnesota. For three years JSAW toured the US with groups like the Billy Graham Association doing demonstrations, sharing the gospel and building skate ministries. Since its inception JSAW has shared the gospel with over 135,000 youth and built over 15 action sports ministries including projects in Panama, India, Dubai, Guatemala, Ethiopia and Egypt. Today JSAW's headquarters, Help Board Shop and skatepark, creates a place for riders in the Minneapolis area to get connected in a small group, find a mentor and engage in many fun action sports activities. JSAW's worldwide department provides funding for its strategic partners Christian Skaters, Christian Surfers and Snowboarders for Christ and their 85+ chapters around the globe.
