Fundraiser for Skatepark in Mazunte, Oaxaca

A group of Santa Cruz artists and activists led by Scotts Valley native Elliot Stone has launched a fundraiser to raise $75,000 to build Mazunte SK8, a skatepark in the town of Mazunte in Oaxaca, Mexico for “a deserving, under-resourced community of shredders.”

To raise awareness, funds, and consciousness, the Santa Cruz Sender Collective invites the public to party on First Friday, Feb. 7 at the Natural Motion Warehouse at 1037 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062.

“The [Mazunte SK8 skatepark] will bring light to thousands who may otherwise be sitting on a curb, getting into mischief, and questioning the purpose of life,” said Stone. “As humans it is our job to spread peace and contentment to the best of our ability. More skateboarding is better for the world.”

The Origins of Mazunte SK8
Stone drove from California to Oaxaca, Mexico in early 2019 with the intention of establishing a new home amid a vibrant yoga community and warm waves. Along the way, he stopped at nearly every skatepark on the way to “get his meditation on.”

“When I entered parks, I was welcomed by local talent and even invited to spend the night in their personal homes,” said Stone. “When you enter a skatepark, you are part of a worldwide community. They provide an outlet for individuals to set their mind at ease, get a workout, have a sense of belonging, and offer unlimited artistic expression.”
Mazunte is a town of roughly 4,000 that also attracts more than 10,000 backpacking tourists each year. When he arrived, Elliot discovered “a community of ocean shredders as salty (humble) as it gets.”

“Without blinking, they accepted an outsider as a brother because we share an appreciation for body movement in nature,” said Stone. “They are simply good humans.”

When he discovered this developing oceanside paradise, known for world-class surf, yoga, and laid-back vibes, did not have a skatepark, Stone’s mission materialized.

“Considering how well the population surfs and skims, I realized Mazunte deserved a skatepark,” said Stone. “I decided to contribute my resources to building this community a skatepark that they are so ready to utilize.”

And Stone has backed up his words with money. Last year, he contributed $75,000 USD of his own money to secure a 10,000-square-foot property in the middle of town with approval from the city to build the park. The skatepark will be of the community, for the community, and will be free for all to use. But to finish the job, Stone and the Santa Cruz Sender Collective need help. Skatepark designs, blueprints and material costs are not cheap but the ROI will last for lifetimes.

“The lives we will impact may never be able to directly express their thanks but that's not what it is about. Selfless contribution to the greater good is the opportunity here,” said Stone. “Join us in this global impact project by choosing any amount that you are inspired to give. We have set up contribution levels to thank you for your act of kindness.”

What: First Friday Fundraiser
When: 5 pm – 10 pm, Friday, February 7, 2020
Where: Natural Motion Warehouse at 1037 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
More Info and to Donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/mazunte-sk8