Elevating Bakersfield's Skate Culture
Preserving the History, Art, and Energy of Skateboarding in Bakersfield
$ Goal to Empower Bakersfield's Skate Culture
Join us in supporting our flagship programs and initiatives, uniting creativity, history, and community.
Artistic Expression
Fostering creativity by commissioning local skateboarders to create original artworks, integrating skate culture with the arts.
Our Mission
To celebrate, preserve, and grow the skateboarding, art, and music culture of Bakersfield by integrating community events and youth development through a dedicated nonprofit organization.
As we grow, we envision expanding our youth programs, establishing The Crystal Palace as a permanent downtown landmark, and hosting national-level skateboarding and art events.
100% of Donations Fund Local Youth Skate Programs
Rest assured that every dollar you donate goes directly to supporting our youth skateboarding initiatives. Your generous support is dedicated entirely to empowering young skateboarders in the Bakersfield community.
Programs
Current Initiatives & Projects
The Crystal Palace of Skateboarding
Join us in establishing a professional skateboard museum that will showcase historical memorabilia, interactive public art experiences, and community-driven exhibitions. This initiative aims to create a permanent downtown Bakersfield location, serving as the foundation’s home base and a cultural hub for skateboarding enthusiasts.
Goal: $500,000
661VM Video Magazine
A biannual video series capturing Bakersfield’s skate culture and community, featuring local skaters, businesses, and events. Premiering at our exhibitions, 661VM also serves as a key fundraising tool through advertising.
Goal: $50,000
First Friday Community Skate Events
Be a part of our monthly First Friday events, where we close streets for public skateboarding sessions featuring portable skate obstacles, live music, public art installations, and interactive experiences. These events foster community engagement and celebrate Bakersfield’s vibrant skate culture.
Goal: $150,000
Artist Commissioning Programs
Support our program to commission two local skateboarders annually to create original paintings of iconic Bakersfield skate spots. These artworks will be showcased in a major fundraising exhibition and reproduced on merchandise such as tees, hats, and pint glasses, with proceeds supporting the foundation’s initiatives.
Goal: $50,000
Empowering Youth Through Skateboarding
A Community Initiative
Through dedicated programs and collaboration with local artists and mentors, we’ve developed a comprehensive approach to youth development and community engagement.
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Approximately 24.63% of Bakersfield’s population is under the age of 15, highlighting a significant youth demographic.
Nationally, 8.5% of American youth are skateboarders, indicating a substantial interest in skateboarding among young people.
In 2023, there were approximately 8.92 million skateboarders in the United States, reflecting the sport’s widespread popularity.
Our Crystal Palace of Skateboarding project aims to establish a professional skateboard museum in downtown Bakersfield, featuring historical memorabilia, interactive public art installations, and community-driven exhibitions.
How You Can Help
Getting Involved
Become a Volunteer
Join our team and help with events, exhibitions, and video production for 661VM. Whether you’re a skater, artist, or community enthusiast, your contributions can make a difference.
Make a Donation
Support our mission by making a donation today. Your generous contribution helps fund essential skateboarding programs, art initiatives, and community events, bringing creativity and engagement to Bakersfield’s youth.
