The Concrete Jungle Foundation (CJF) is an international nonprofit using the positive values of skateboarding to support youth around the world. Its mission statement describes their commitment to build and run skateparks and youth development programs to “promote health and well-being, access to education, community development, gender equality and economic growth.” Founded in 2018, the group has already expanded to more than eight countries worldwide and recently expanded to build a sustainable skatepark in Morocco with the goal of empowering Morocco’s youth. 

Why Skateboarding? 

Sports have long been recognized as an important vehicle for physical health but the benefits are often far greater. Studies from the U.S. Department of Health have repeatedly shown how positive values inherent to sports — such as team building, confidence and commitment — have fostered immense growth in children. 

In fact, UNICEF has recognized these studies and launched the Right to Play initiative — arguing that children, particularly those who have experienced trauma, deserve opportunities to play sports. By focusing on skateboarding, the CJF has created a sense of community, fostered a playful environment and helped children gain confidence. 

New Developments in Morocco 

The CJF built its skatepark in Morocco in 2022 after demonstrating success in Peru and Jamaica. The nonprofit built the Fiers et Forts skatepark on the grounds of a children’s home center currently housing more than 35 children. Although the park is on the grounds of the orphanage, the skatepark is open to the public. Children throughout the community are able to skate and attend their educational enrichment programs at no cost. 

Eduskate Classes

The CJF has developed a variety of programs within the last year to offer to local youth and children of the orphanage. The programs include eduskate classes, educational enrichment offerings and designated disability sessions. 

The eduskate classes are the primary concern of the nonprofit and their connection between skateboarding and positive values. These classes, for children aged 6–16, follow a specific structure and create an opportunity for children living at the orphanage to develop friendships with children in the broader community. 

After a brief lesson/demonstration and free skate time, participants end the class with a reflection circle to share their accomplishments and reflect on their growth. Additionally, the classes often follow a specific theme such as a positive mentality, creativity, courage and other values based on personal growth and community. As teachers focus classes on these themes, they create an opportunity to connect these values with the sport. 

Educational Enrichment Workshops

Educational enrichment opportunities are the second way children within the home and the broader community come together. Two days per week, children receive encouragement to attend workshops on various topics such as gardening, art and recycling in order to supplement their education and introduce the children to new subject matter. 

While the educational enrichment workshops aim to supplement school, they play an important role in creating accessible educational opportunities to children who may not currently attend school. According to a UNICEF 2022 report, Morocco has a 28% secondary school completion rate. 

The most recent development in CJF’s ongoing offerings is designated disability sessions at the skatepark. During these hours, the skatepark is closed to the general public while disabled children skate as a form of physical therapy. A 1:1 approach between teacher and student occurs to ensure participants have adequate support. 

CJF’s Success in Helping Morocco’s Youth

In less than two years, the CJF has reported: 

• About 52 children attending their edu-skate classes. 
• Thirty-nine percent female participation in edu-skate classes. 
• About 1,200+ skatepark visits.
• Approximately 180+ total attendance at educational enrichment sessions.
• About 41% female participation in educational enrichment sessions. 
• Thirty-one participants in disability sessions.

Access to these resources can change a kid’s life and play a crucial role in empowering Morocco’s youth. More than 40% of Morocco’s children fit within UNICEF’s description of “multidimensional poverty.” Symptoms of multidimensional poverty include a lack of consistent access to adequate housing and education. 

Within a short period, CJF has spearheaded initiatives that could address these symptoms of multidimensional poverty and combined the programs with efforts to uplift spirits and support mental health. CJF continues to adjust its programs based on community feedback and claims it will continue to expand operations. 

– Nikki Bayat
Photo: Flickr