Johnny Strange Skateboarding Initiative Alongside Salad Days
In the vibrant world of skateboarding, Johnny Strange Skateboarding Initiative Alongside Salad Days stand out as icons of hope and change for the youth. These two organizations, driven by passion and purpose, are making a difference in the lives of skateboarders around the world, particularly in the skateboarding communities of Bhutan.
Salad Days of Skateboarding, a 501c(3) nonprofit founded by professional skateboarder Nestor Judkins, is dedicated to promoting skateboarding as a means of creating community and breaking down barriers of inequality. The organization partners with local leaders to donate equipment, build infrastructure, and coordinate mentorship programs in underserved skateboarding communities globally. Their work is guided by values of inclusivity and sustainability, ensuring that skateboarding remains a vehicle for positive change.
One of Salad Days’ significant partnerships is with the Johnny Strange Memorial Skatepark in Thimphu, Bhutan. Named after the adventurous spirit of Johnny Strange, the park serves as a symbol of his legacy and commitment to youth development. Johnny, known for his adventurous pursuits and passion for skateboarding, visited Bhutan in 2014 and fell in love with the country and its people. His tragic passing in 2015 inspired his Dad Brian Strange and his family to build the skatepark in 2018, the first of its kind in Bhutan.
Together, Salad Days and the Johnny Strange Initiative have made remarkable strides in supporting the skateboarding community in Bhutan. They have hosted free skate camps, donated equipment, and facilitated mentorship programs, empowering local youth to pursue their passion for skateboarding. Through these efforts, they have not only enriched the lives of individuals but also fostered a sense of community and joy in Thimphu.
As Salad Days prepares for its upcoming skate camp in Bhutan, they continue to honor Johnny’s spirit and legacy, ensuring that his love for skateboarding lives on. The partnership between Salad Days and the Johnny Strange Initiative is a testament to the transformative power of skateboarding and the impact it can have on individuals and communities alike.