preliminary

Over the course of the past month, I have been toying with different ideas for my Senior Project this quarter. There are plenty of things we encounter as humans that have a poor design, or are just failing at communicating. Likewise, there are handfuls of organizations failing in the exact same ways. I am specifically leaning towards the non-profit organization campaign rather than the redesign of an existing service.

After weeks of research, it's starting to feel like summer outside, and I have found a non-profit in Philadelphia that I believe is the best candidate for my Senior Project study. Franklin's Paine is a non-profit located in Philadelphia, that supports the rights of skateboarders in the city. I have known of this organization for quite some time now, as I am also an advocate for skateboarders rights in the city.

"Franklin's Paine Skatepark Fund works on behalf of Philadelphia skateboarders to advocate for their rights and the social and economic benefits of skateboarding. Our public advocacy, research, and outreach support the growth of Philadelphia's skateparks and skateboarding culture, as well as the field and industry. Our vision is to become the national leader in skateboard research and policy making through three vital programs."

Since Philly's primo-skate weather  is just around the corner, so are all the skateboarding events. For instance, I was debating working with Go Skate Day (June 21st) which is already a well-known event and takes place nation-wide. Also, Franklin's Paine currently holds a few small events and freestyle jams. I believe that these small sessions have huge potential, if expanded upon. Word needs to be spread through the skate communities of the internet and the streets. Skaters have a passion for the city and fellow skateboarders... I see the networking blowing up into something extremely proficient. 

Public Advocacy– We engage in political outreach to raise awareness about the needs of the skateboard population and encourage government support and the development of new policies.  We engage and empower the public through public forums and conferences on policy, practice, and issues facing the field.  

Research– Our research program conducts and disseminates research on trends in skateboarding, its social and economic impact, and other critical data for the field. Research studies are developed based on current, relevant needs expressed by field leaders.   

Design Conference & Outreach – Design and architecture are essential to skatepark development. This program includes an annual conference on skatepark and product design trends, informing plans to make our future parks the most accessible, skateable, and innovative as possible.