Help Us Get Next Up to the Next Level – Recap

On Thursday, August 11, Next Up Foundation eagerly hosted its first fundraising event since the City of Anaheim granted the organization sole access to the property at 311 East Broadway.  The building, which adjoins the city’s skate park, will serve as Next Up’s first official headquarters and facilitate the inception of exciting new projects in support of youth development.  Next Up kicked off its new era with a gala made possible by our friends at the Packing House, who donated the elegant Cooks Chapel space at The Packing House.

Over 100 people attended the fundraiser, many of whom were learning about Next Up’s skateboarding mentorship program for the very first time.  A silent auction and raffle were held, with generous prizes offered by such sponsors as Vans, TransWorld SKATEboarding, Aluminati Skateboards, Tony Hawk Foundation, Audeze Headphones, Catalina Flyer, Duffy boats, Leather Salon, Powell Peralta and EatSleepFly.com.  In addition to a successful fundraising campaign, Next Up Foundation was especially delighted to meet administrators from South Junior High School and Sunkist Elementary and begin a partnership to benefit Anaheim youth.  Guest speakers Tom Tait, Mayor of Anaheim, and Steve Van Doren of Vans, warmly advocated the opportunities that Next Up presents to the community.  Vinicius “Vina” Tinoco, Founder and Executive Director, outlined the foundation’s strategies to utilize the new space, including workshops for health and nutrition, computer skills, digital media, yoga for athletes, art, and leadership.

The evening was informative and welcoming, leaving guests enthusiastic about how they can contribute to the success of Next Up and its mission.  Total funds raised reached $11,000, enough to kickstart the plans for the new chapter of Next Up into action.  Next Up Foundation, now more than ever, is optimistic about making a positive impact in the lives of under-served youth.

Photos kindly taken by Austin Black