Hello, my name is Rishard Daniels Jr and I’m a Miami-Dade resident and Skatepark Advocate. I’m working with the support of a nonprofit organization called Skatebud, which has started an effort called Legalize Wheels, an initiative to update the skate infrastructure of 10 key sectors in Florida, Miami-Dade being one of those sectors. The effort is being sponsored by Florida House Representative Anna Eskamani with a mission to increase skateboard accessibility and prioritize disenfranchised communities. 

With the support of the City Council and Parks and Recreation Department it’s my plan to raise donations matching the Legalize Wheels $310k initiative aimed at building new skate infrastructure in Miami-Dade County and utilize those funds to build  a skate facility that will develop well-rounded riders within this community. This mission is for a community that i feel has been underserved when it comes to having an accessible facility to practice the arts of wheeled sports. 

My life was transformed by skateboarding. Before I discovered this passion, I weighed 290 pounds and struggled with depression and lack of motivation and discipline. However, when I stepped on that board, my perspective changed - life suddenly seemed worth living again. Through skateboarding, I managed to lose 90 lbs in just two years without any other form of exercise. The lessons learned from this sport - perseverance, courage - have been invaluable.

Now, it's time for me to give back to my community in Opa-Locka, North Miami and Miami Gardens by advocating for better skate infrastructure. Currently, our community is severely underserved with no local skate park available for young riders or enthusiasts like myself.

I'm calling upon all local riders of personal wheeled vehicles, parents of young riders and anyone interested in supporting the youth and promoting healthy lifestyles through sports. We need your support to raise donations matching the Legalize Wheels $310k initiative aimed at building new skate infrastructure in Miami-Dade County.

By signing this petition you're not only supporting the construction of a much-needed facility but also helping promote physical health and mental well-being through an activity that has proven transformative power.

Please sign this petition today and help us bring positive change through skating!

Thank you,

Warm Regards,

Rishard Daniels Jr