Stout, Stout, Get it Worked Out!
Box Office Review: American Teens Are Morons
'Kick a Ginger Day' Spawned At Least 5 Attacks on Redheaded Kids
Intrepid L.A. Foodies Tackle 11-in-11 Nocturnal Challenge
Books for L.A. Nerds: Saints of California
Stoked Mentoring is a non-profit in Los Angeles and New York that uses sports to connect with disadvantaged teenagers, offering them life skills and mentors through surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding. May 2-3, the organization follows up last year's successful fundraiser with two "Stoked Sessions" art shows at Upper Playground downtown. Over 200 artists donated original art created around the theme "I Heart LA" for the show -- 100% of the proceeds will go to directly to Stoked. A gallery featuring selected works is available at the event's Flickr page.
Founded by Sal Masekela, Host of X Games, and Steve Larosiliere, Stoked is a year-long program to help develop successful, determined teens who will give back to the community. "Our kids' grades are increasing, they're having more time around positive role models, and we're increasing self-esteem and self-confidence," notes Larosiliere, Stoked's Executive Director.
Stoked recently announced the addition of a sports photography workshop where pro surf and skate photographers serve as mentors. Participating teens eventually have their work exhibited in their own show. Says Larosiliere, "We're looking forward to doing more with our kids after school via arts and life skills workshops. This past year, we've partnered with Nike to do arts workshops. Nikon just donated some great cameras, so we would like to continue that after school to support our kids in becoming successful teens - not just in sports."
With so many great causes out there and everyone's wallets feeling pinched, Larosiliere recommends the Stoked fundraiser is where to put your precious time and money. "There's nowhere in LA where you can get excellent art starting at $75 from the best artists on the West Coast," he explains. "You're already going out on a Saturday, why not come to a fundraiser to support something that's helping out at-risk youth in LA? At some point in your life, you've had someone help you out. The kids of LA need more support and opportunities. By coming out you can help us continue the work of creating successful teens from LA."
Saturday's art show is 21 and over, with free drinks included with the purchase of a ticket. Sunday is an all-ages, "free will" donation at the door event featuring an interactive artmaking session and exhibit.
Stoked Sessions LA Fundraiser
Upper Playground @ 125 E. 6th St., Los Angeles, CA 90014
Saturday May 2, 7-11 pm
$15 tickets onilne/$20 at door
Sunday May 3, Noon-5pm
Free with donation
RSVP requested at losangeles@stoked.org
add to stumble upon
add to reddit
tweet this
post to facebook
Post a comment (Comment Policy)