Needs ASsessment Survey OF NYC SKATERS

This fall, HHF conducted a needs assessment of NYC skaters in order to inform our organizational strategy and future programs. The study consisted of demographic research, a census of the NYC skate community, focus groups, and surveys of over 300 skateboarders. Among our major findings were:

• Respondents expressed a need for support with employment and career development
• NYC skateboarders who participated in the survey have an often adversarial relationship with traditional schools, as demonstrated by a nearly 50% rate of suspension/expulsion;
• 65% of those surveyed have never participated in organized after-school or summer programs;
• The prevalence of ADHD symptoms is between 3 and 8 times higher than the national rate, which means that they are more likely to have difficulty with school and are at risk for becoming engaged in delinquent activity, potentially leading to high school dropout and incarceration;
• And yet, despite regular contact with police, NYC skaters had significantly lower rates of incarceration and criminal justice system involvement than their non-skater counterparts, suggesting that there are inherent benefits to being members of the skate community. 

Based on the feedback, data, and information gathered through this survey, we will be developing the blueprint for a pilot sports-based youth development program that will build upon the largely ad hoc psychosocial support we’ve offered since 2010, through year-long programming for NYC skaters. We plan to engage local skaters in an iterative process of community-based program development, so that the program can effectively meet skaters where they are.
​
Please email Executive Director Jessica Forsyth: [email protected] if you are interested in learning more about what we found through our research.