Skate 4 Education Program Faces Uncertain Future Amid Funding Challenges

The Skate 4 Education after-school program, based at The Garage Board Shop in East Los Angeles, has been put on pause due to financial difficulties exacerbated by recent immigration raids and a lack of funding. Founded by Maria Patricia Ramblaz, the program has served as a vital resource for local youth for 15 years, providing academic support and mentorship. The abrupt suspension has left parents and students concerned about the impact on their education and personal development.

LAist

Skate 4 Education was established to create an educational environment that Ramblaz felt was lacking during her own childhood in Boyle Heights. The program offers tutoring, mentorship, and a safe space for students to engage with their peers. Over the years, it has received support from various organizations, including L.A. Care, LA2050, Nike, and Southern California Edison, which helped fund paid mentors through America’s Job Center of California (AJCC). However, this year, AJCC could only provide mentors until December, leaving a gap that Ramblaz could not fill due to rising operational costs.

LAist

The program's financial stability has been severely impacted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids that occurred last June, which drastically reduced sales at The Garage Board Shop. Ramblaz reported a drop in daily sales from an average of $400 to as low as $2, leading to a significant decline in program attendance from 12-15 students to just 3-5. This decline has further strained the program's finances, as parents contribute a $50 monthly donation to enroll their children.

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In response to the program's suspension, students have taken initiative to raise funds. Ten-year-old Rose Duran expressed her desire to forgo her quinceañera celebration to help save the program, while other students have offered to donate birthday money. Parents have also voiced their concerns, noting the positive impact the program has had on their children's academic performance and social skills.

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Maria Patricia Ramblaz emphasized the necessity of pausing the program to seek new funding sources, stating, “Our best option to ensure the program continues for future generations is a momentary pause.” She has submitted over 30 grant applications in recent months but has faced numerous rejections. Ramblaz estimates that approximately $50,000 is needed to sustain the program through the year, covering mentor salaries and educational supplies.

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Critics of the program's suspension highlight the broader implications for educational access in the community. Parents and advocates argue that cutting such programs limits opportunities for youth, potentially affecting their future prospects. Ramblaz lamented, “These kids should be the next governor, the next mayor, but because we’re cutting the education, I don’t think it’s gonna give us a chance to open more bridges for the kids.”

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The future of the Skate 4 Education program remains uncertain as Ramblaz continues to seek funding. The community's response indicates a strong desire to support the program, but without significant financial backing, its continuation is at risk. Ramblaz's commitment to the program reflects her dedication to empowering the youth of Boyle Heights, but the challenges ahead are substantial.

LAist