Action for All is a nonprofit organization providing mentoring programs for children between the ages of 2-17 years of age in Central Virginia. Our organization’s desire is to bring the action sports to our local community with an emphasis on serving underserved population including: those living at or below the Federal Poverty guidelines, at risk youth, and those with developmental distinctions.
The action sports offer a great outlet for youth in our community to develop leadership skills, team building, goal setting, and discipline. These skills will serve our participants in school, home, and in the workplace. Creating a positive and accepting atmosphere provides a safe haven for youth to look past the daily trials and tribulations of life and focus on a task that is both rewarding and exciting. In addition, all of programs are based on a sliding scale (2014 Federal Poverty Guidelines) to ensure that all children and their families are able to take part. Issues We Address
Action for All has two major issues that we are addressing. The issue is serving youth that would not otherwise be able to take part in action sports. This includes children that simply cannot afford the cost of a day at a ski resort or skate park. For example, a day at our local ski resort can cost upwards of $150 per person (Wintergreen Resort, 2014). We are also aiming to reach out to children that are at risk, including foster care, alternative schools, and those that are at risk for recidivism. By providing a positive and productive activity, we are getting these children out the house, off the streets, and allowing them to do something that they can enjoy for a lifetime. Nearly 1 in 3 children are obese. Obesity can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease (American Heart Association, 2014). Getting children off of the couch and away from the computer and into an aerobic activity is a great way to incorporate exercise into daily living. Of course, a child does not have to be obese to reap the benefits of aerobic activity! History
Action for All first came into fruition in 2012. Founder, Mike Bailey looked around the ski resort he called home and was shocked to see a decline of children on the slopes. He spent the season seeking to find out why families were no longer coming out to resorts and was told time after time that price was the mitigating factor. Unfortunately, it can cost as much to go to a ski resort for a single day, than to take a beach vacation for a week. When one considers the cost for renting equipment, purchasing a lift ticket, and any lessons that will be necessary the cost adds up fast. For many families this price is unattainable, and for families living under the poverty level, something they wouldn't give a second thought about trying to do. There is no wonder that resort visits are down that they are responsible, dedicated, and upholding the values of our organization. They will also complete an approval process from the board.