Latest news with #TonyHawkFoundation
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Tony Hawk
Credit - Olivia Wong—Getty Images Tony Hawk says the skatepark in his hometown of San Diego did more than help develop the skills that made him the world's most famous skateboarder. It also gave him a sense of belonging. 'It was never lost on me how lucky I was to have that community,' he says. As the sport took off, along with Hawk's personal fame, he became increasingly aware that aspiring skateboarders in many parts of the country were honing their skills in shopping centers and public parks where they were often unwelcome. He launched The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation) in 2002, which has since awarded almost $13 million to help fund 661 safe places to skate in all 50 states—including 15 new parks in 2024, plus donations of nearly 600 skateboards, 400 helmets, and other equipment. The Skatepark Project has also helped fund skateparks in Afghanistan, Cambodia, and South Africa, in partnership with the nonprofit Skateistan. Going forward, Hawk wants to provide more skateparks in Native American communities, as well as rural and other underserved areas. Skate parks 'are probably the most inclusive spaces in terms of race, gender, age and skill levels,' says Hawk. 'You can find people from all walks of life, top performers and beginners, enjoying the same space.' Contact us at letters@


Time Magazine
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Magazine
TIME100 Philanthropy 2025
Tony Hawk says the skatepark in his hometown of San Diego did more than help develop the skills that made him the world's most famous skateboarder. It also gave him a sense of belonging. 'It was never lost on me how lucky I was to have that community,' he says. As the sport took off, along with Hawk's personal fame, he became increasingly aware that aspiring skateboarders in many parts of the country were honing their skills in shopping centers and public parks where they were often unwelcome. He launched The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation) in 2002, which has since awarded almost $13 million to help fund 661 safe places to skate in all 50 states—including 15 new parks in 2024, plus donations of nearly 600 skateboards, 400 helmets, and other equipment. The Skatepark Project has also helped fund skateparks in Afghanistan, Cambodia, and South Africa, in partnership with the nonprofit Skateistan. Going forward, Hawk wants to provide more skateparks in Native American communities, as well as rural and other underserved areas. Skate parks 'are probably the most inclusive spaces in terms of race, gender, age and skill levels,' says Hawk. 'You can find people from all walks of life, top performers and beginners, enjoying the same space.'
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
From half-pipes to high finance: What investors can learn from Tony Hawk's unexpected success and smart investments
When you think of Tony Hawk, chances are you picture him pulling off a 900 or flying high in a skatepark. And while Hawk managed to conquer the skateboarding world thanks to his legendary skills, he managed to hone some pretty serious financial tricks too. In a YouTube video, the old-school skater chats with hosts of Nine Club Clips to reveal what he learned about finance and the power of money as he built his brand and his business. I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Home prices in America could fly through the roof in 2025 — here's the big reason why and how to take full advantage (with as little as $10) Americans with upside-down car loans owe more money than ever before — and drivers can't keep up. Here are 3 ways to cut your monthly costs ASAP Here are three key lessons investors of all types can learn from Hawk's journey. Tony Hawk has invested in multiple business ventures, including his skateboard company Birdhouse and various clothing and video game projects. And while Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game series was a massive hit, even Hawk himself didn't anticipate just how successful it would become. After the release of the fourth game in the series, he was shocked to learn that the first three games were still in the top 10 sales. The result? A surprise $4 million royalty cheque that changed his life. This is why it's so important to be ready to seize opportunities. Sometimes, a single investment or venture can unexpectedly take off and change your life overnight. But this only happens if you're in the right place at the right time, with the right mindset, to take advantage of the opportunity. For investors, this highlights the importance of staying connected to your passions. By backing businesses that align with his personal interests, Hawk has been able to stay engaged and motivated — and ready to seize opportunities when they come. Read more: Jamie Dimon issues a warning about the US stock market — says prices are 'kind of inflated.' Crashproof your portfolio with these 3 rock-solid strategies Now that you've made your fortune, how will you make use of it? Hawk didn't just sit on his newfound wealth. He used a significant portion of his earnings to give back through his Tony Hawk Foundation, which builds skateparks in underprivileged areas. Philanthropy can be a powerful way to share your success, and it also builds a lasting legacy. Whether donating a portion of your earnings to charity, investing in sustainable businesses, or supporting local initiatives, giving back can create a ripple effect beyond financial returns. Beyond personal fulfillment, charitable giving can have tax advantages and can be an integral part of estate planning for those thinking long-term. Despite his wealth and fame, Tony Hawk is known for staying grounded. He doesn't flaunt his success, preferring to focus on meaningful projects and personal fulfillment rather than flashy displays of wealth. Hawk's humility is a reminder that staying grounded is key to long-term success. When things are going well, it can be easy to get caught up in chasing profits and showing off. However, staying humble, avoiding risky or showy investments, and keeping your focus on long-term goals can help you sustain your financial success. True wealth isn't just about money — it's about how you use it and how it aligns with your values. Whether it's being prepared for unexpected success, giving back to the community, staying humble, or diversifying your investments, Hawk's approach is one we can all learn from. His story proves that the principles of success — whether in skateboarding, business, or investing — often overlap. So, as you roll toward your own financial goals, remember to take a few tips from the 'Birdman' himself. One dozen eggs in America now costs a record high of $4.95 — here are 3 simple ways to inflation-proof your retirement portfolio Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Protect your retirement savings with these 5 essential money moves — most of which you can complete in just minutes This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Sign in to access your portfolio