SKATE LIKE A GIRL
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A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. ​​EIN: 26-2500555
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Skate Like a Girl is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. EIN: 26-250055
HAVE A QUESTION OR INQUIRY? CLICK HERE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US
FOR PROGRAMMING/EVENT PARTNERSHIPS CLICK HERE
CLICK HERE TO READ OUR SPECTATOR POLICY

GENERAL

WHAT IS YOUR EIN?
​Skate Like a Girl is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. EIN: 26-2500555
Why "Skate Like a Girl"?
Skate Like a Girl is a unique organization providing an innovative approach to youth, women and/or trans empowerment through the sport of skateboarding. Creating an inclusive community by promoting confidence, leadership, and social justice, Skate Like a Girl serves thousands of individuals annually with a variety of programs and events. Formed in 2000, there are currently chapters in Seattle, Portland, and the SF Bay Area.
Why do you ask people what their pronouns are?
At Skate Like a Girl, we are committed to creating spaces where youth of all genders feel welcome. Every day we skate with little boys with long hair, girls who hate pink, and many more kiddos in between and beyond. In order to not misgender our youth, we ask youth to share their pronouns with the group. If they don't wish to share their pronouns, and opt to use their name instead, that's totally cool. ​
Why do you call your skate clinics “Women and/OR Trans” Sessions?
At Skate Like a Girl we are committed to centering identities who have long been excluded or unwelcome in skateboarding spaces. One way we do this is through our Women &/or Trans Sessions. We picked this title through a thoughtful months-long effort where staff, volunteers, and program participants from all 3 chapter cities provided input and contributed to multiple discussions. Our community decided this would be the best title to intentionally call in women and/or trans people, acknowledging that:
  • Specific use of the word “Trans” in our title has allowed for conversations and actions with our community partners around trans inclusion in skate spaces that have historically been dominated by cisgender people.
  • The title is intended to bring together ‘women’ and ‘trans’ people and acknowledge that this is a space for people within either or both of those communities. Some skaters may also identify with both terms, “women” and “trans”.
  • This program is open to anyone who identifies as non-cisgender male (women, non binary, gender non-conforming, trans, etc) we intentionally chose to not center men in the title of our program (example: “Anybody But a Cis Dude” Skate Night).
  • Some people may still be confused by our title of “Women &/or Trans Sessions”, we are committed to adding additional information that makes our entire non-cis male community feel welcome, such as on captions or in any direct dialogue we have.
If you are interested in further dialogue or want to share your thoughts, please feel free to email us to connect further at info@skatelikeagirl.com
I’m confused about the terminology you use and who your programs are for, can you provide more details?
ALL GENDER YOUTH
Welcome to all genders. Typically ages 6-12, with details specified on marketing materials and registration.

GRRLZ YOUTH
Welcome to girls, trans, non-binary and/or gender non-conforming skaters. Typically ages 6-16, with details specified on marketing materials and registration.

WOMEN &/OR TRANS
Anyone who does not identify as a cisgender male, including women, trans, non-binary and/or gender non-conforming skaters. Open to all ages 6-100 so no, you’re not “too old”!

QUEER &/OR TRANS 
Welcome to anyone who identifies as queer and/or trans, including cisgender boys/men who identify as queer. Open to all ages 6-100 so no, you’re not “too old”!
Are your programs for girls only?
We host a variety of programs, with most being inclusive of all genders. We also have programs which seek to serve specifically non-cisgender male participants, such as Women &/or Trans Sessions. Check registration details to learn who can come to what programs.
WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?
We currently have chapters in Seattle, Portland, and the San Francisco Bay Area. We are headquartered in Seattle.

​We accept general mail at:

Attn: Skate Like a Girl
305 Harrison St
Seattle, WA 98109
How do I get involved?
One of the best ways to get involved is to attend an event or program first and meet the staff and volunteer team to find out more. Once you have decided you are interested in volunteering, please fill out our volunteer application. (Must be 13 years or older). Learn more about volunteer opportunities here. 
How do I get a Skate Like a Girl program started at my local community center or my child's school?
If located in Seattle, Portland or SF Bay Area please fill out our partnership application HERE. 

If located outside of our chapter cities, check out our Program Toolkit and our S.I.C. Mentorship Program. 
​DO YOU SPONSOR SKATEBOARDERS?
No, but please connect with Girls Skate Network to find resources.
Do you do private lessons?
Our mission statement is to build an inclusive community and therefore we do not offer private lessons as part of our program model. However, if you are interested in private lessons we recommend working with our partners:

Seattle = All Together Skatepark
Bay Area = Rob Skate Academy
Portland = Stronger Skatepark

If you're interested in working with a Skate Like a Girl staff member/volunteer please contact our chapter cities. If there is mutual interest we are happy to connect you. 
Do you do birthday parties?
Similar to private lessons, we don't offer birthday parties but we recommend our partners:

Seattle = All Together Skatepark
Bay Area = Rob Skate Academy
Portland = Stronger Skatepark
Do you do aggressive roller blading, longboarding, quad skating, roller skating, or swivel board classes?
Sorry, we only run skateboard programs. At our public/free Community Meetups, all wheels are welcome (no formal instruction).
Will you donate to our silent auction?
Due to capacity restrictions we are not able to fulfill all requests and take these on a case by case basis. We specifically seek to donate to existing program partners with Skate Like a Girl. Please complete this inquiry form. 
When will you start a chapter in _____ city?
We have no plans to expand beyond Seattle, Portland and SF Bay Area. However, if you are determined to start your own chapter and/or are looking for community in your region, check out our S.I.C. Program as well as our Program Toolkit.

PARTICIPANTS/REGISTRATION

WHY CAN'T I GET A REFUND THE DAY OF A PROGRAM?
Thank you for your inquiry regarding our updated registration and refund policies. 

Last year we lost thousands of dollars due to last-minute cancellations. We want to be flexible and meet all skaters where they’re at, but last-minute cancellations are costly to us as a small organization and they prevent other folks from getting the chance to skate with us. While we try our best to fill any vacancies using our waitlist system, attempting to fill those spaces becomes increasingly difficult as a session draws nearer.

Nevertheless, we are continuing to offer partial refunds or program credits in the majority of cancellation cases. 

We do apologize if this has caused you financial hardship, and we hope that you can understand our goals of providing programming for as many folks as possible, while also ensuring we can pay our staff fair wages, cover space rental fees, and remain sustainable for years to come.
WHAT IS YOUR RETURN/REFUND POLICY?
See our refund policy here.
DO YOU PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE?
Skate Like a Girl's goal is to provide scholarships to a minimum of 15% of all participants. 

Click here to apply for Financial Assistance. 

For a PDF version of our Financial Assistance Application, Click here. ​
Where CAN I find your waiver? 
Here is our general liability waiver. Please note, this is for extenuating circumstances and this is NOT how you register to come skate with us. To register for a specific program please click here. 
WHAT DO LEVELS 1, 2 AND 3 MEAN FOR INSTRUCTION BASED PROGRAMS?
For some of our lesson based programs, we may group skaters by their rough ability level to ensure participants are able to skate and learn safely. Click here for the overview.​
WHERE CAN I FIND DETAILS FOR SUMMER CAMP?
Check out our Parent Information Sheet. If you still have questions, please contact our chapter directors.

seattle@skatelikeagirl.com
portland@skatelikeagirl.com
sfbay@skatelikeagirl.com

Looking for 2023 Summer Camp registration? Registration will be launching the week of March 1st, 2023. 
Do you supply gear for your programs?
For registered programs, please note on your registration form if you need to borrow gear. For non-registered programs, gear will not be provided. If you would like your own gear to keep, please complete our Gear Request Form. (skateboard, helmet, knee/elbow/wrist pads).

​Want to learn about what kind of skateboard to get, check out our tutorial here! (link to skateboard video) If you have questions about pads and other accessories, check out this video!
CAN I WATCH MY CHILD/FRIEND/PARTNER AT YOUR SKATE PROGRAM?
Please read our spectator policy here.
​What type of skateboard is right for me or my child?
  • We strongly recommend a skateboard that is a “popsicle” shape, and we do not recommend longboards, penny boards, or cruisers for our programming. If you have further questions about where to purchase a quality skateboard or safety gear, please contact your local chapter. 
  • Want to learn about what kind of skateboard to get? Check out our tutorial here!
  • Although they seem like a good deal, mass-produced skateboards from department stores will make it harder for your child to roll, gain speed, and turn. Further, they add to the risk of falls due to an inability to properly steer or roll. We HIGHLY recommend investing in a higher quality board.
  • Proper pads are very important. Good pads cover the elbows and knees completely, and have large plastic plates to allow sliding on concrete without skin contact. The straps should fit snugly around knees and elbows, without easily falling off or constricting movement. Helmets should fit snugly on the head, without causing headache (too tight) or flopping around (too loose). 
  • ​If you have questions about pads and other accessories, check out this video!
Where can I buy a quality skateboard and gear for ME OR FOR my child?
Seattle, WA
35th North Skate Shop
evo Seattle

Portland, OR
Tactics
CCS
​evo Portland

Bay Area, CA
510 Skate Shop - Berkeley
DLX Skate Shop - San Francisco
Atlas Skate Shop - San Mateo

If you don't live in one of our chapter cities, we recommend supporting your local skate shop. If that's not possible, check out:

nhsskatedirect.com
evo.com
tactics.com
Why is there a coupon code when I check out?
Coupon codes are how we distribute our financial assistance.

TOP 5 THINGS TO KNOW FOR NEW SKATERS!


PROGRAM TERMINOLOGY

ALL GENDER YOUTH
These programs welcome youth of all genders, ages 6-13.

GIRLS &/OR TRANS
These programs welcome skaters who are girls, trans, non-binary and/or gender expansive, ages 6-16.

WOMEN &/OR TRANS
These programs welcome anyone who does not identify as a cisgender male, including skaters who are girls, women, trans, non-binary and/or gender expansive. Open to all ages 6-100 so no, you’re not “too old”!
​

QUEER &/OR TRANS YOUTH
These programs welcome anyone who identifies as queer and/or trans, including cisgender boys who identify as queer, ages 6-16. 

ORGANIZATION HOLIDAYS

Our organization observes the following holidays listed below. During these days we will be out of office / working with limited capacity.

2023 Holidays
  • Sunday, 1/1 - New Year's Day (observed Monday 1/2)
  • Monday, 1/16 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • Monday 5/1 - May Day
  • Monday 9/4 - Labor Day 
  • TBD September/October - Annual Mental Health Unplug
  • Monday 10/9 - Indigenous People's Day 
  • Tuesday 11/7 - Election Day

COVID FAQS

 COVID UPDATES -  STARTING
​JAN 1, 2023

(CLICK TO EXPAND)
Effective January 1, 2023:
Masking
Staff/Volunteers: 

  • Masks will be optional and highly recommended for staff and volunteers at all Skate Like a Girl programs and events including indoor or outdoor camps, shop hangs, and community meetups, unless masks are required by the space where activities are held.
  • ​​Masks are required for all staff and volunteers recovering from COVID - Until they get a negative antigen test OR 10 days after their positive test, whichever happens first. 

Participants:
  • Masks will be optional and highly recommended for participants at all Skate Like a Girl programs and events including indoor or outdoor camps, shop hangs, and community meetups, unless masks are required by the space where activities are held.
  • ​Masks are required for all participants recovering from COVID - Until they get a negative antigen test OR 10 days after their positive test, whichever happens first. 

Physical Contact at Programs

Physical Contact between coaches and participants will be allowed if and only if both parties consent to the contact. 
Vaccination
Staff/Volunteers: 
  • Required to upload proof of vaccination as per current CDC guidelines to participate or work/volunteer in person
  • ​Unvaccinated staff/volunteers can show proof of negative antigen and/or PCR test (within 72 hours) to direct supervisor prior to attending/working/volunteering in person
  • Depending on spaces where programs or events hosted, there may be additional policies that supersede Skate Like a Girl’s vaccination policy (i.e. indoor skatepark requires everyone to show a vaccine card upon arrival)
Participants:
  • Upon registration participants click a check box that they are vaccinated as per current CDC guidelines or will take a COVID19 test and test negative within 48 hours prior to program or event start.
  • ​NOTE: depending on spaces where programs or events hosted, there may be additional policies that supersede Skate Like a Girl’s vaccination policy (i.e.Indoor skatepark requires everyone to show a vaccine card upon arrival)

COVID19 Tests
Staff/Volunteers: 

  • Tests must be administered 48 hours or less prior to working for unvaccinated staff/volunteers. Upon negative result, confirm that your direct supervisor has received your result. 

​​Acceptable forms of test include
  • PCR
  • ​Antigen
  • At-home administered test (take a photo, and share time administered with supervisor)

Participants:
  • Tests must be administered 48 hours or less prior to arrival at programs or events for unvaccinated participants.
  • ​Acceptable forms of test include:
    • PCR
    • ​Antigen
    • At-home administered test

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? CONTACT US:

For General Inquiries
(ie. not specific to a chapter, including media, partnership, marketing opportunities):
​
Click Here
Seattle Chapter 
​E: seattle@skatelikeagirl.com
P: 888-401-0195 ext 1
or click here for program partnership
​

Attn: Skate Like a Girl
305 Harrison St.
Seattle WA 98109
Portland Chapter
E: portland@skatelikeagirl.com
P: 888-401-0195 ext 
2

or click here for program partnership
SF Bay Area Chapter 
E: sfbay@skatelikeagirl.com
​
P: 888-401-0195 ext 3
or click here for program partnership
FOR GENERAL INQUIRIES PLEASE COMPLETE THIS FORM
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CONTACT / FAQ
FINANCIAL AID
PROGRAM ​REFUND POLICY
Skate Like a Girl is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. ​Employer ID Number (Tax Identification Number): 26-2500555
  • ABOUT
    • OUR MISSION
    • OUR TEAM
    • PRESS
    • FAQ + CONTACT >
      • HAVE A QUESTION?
    • PROGRAM TOOLKIT
    • 2022 ANNUAL REPORT
    • COVID POLICIES
    • REFUND POLICY
    • FINANCIAL AID
  • PROGRAMS BY CITY
    • SEATTLE
    • PORTLAND
    • SF BAY AREA
    • WOF 11 RECAP
    • SKATEBOARDING INCLUSIVITY COOPERATIVE (SIC)
    • LEARN TO SKATE AT HOME >
      • TUTORIAL VIDEOS
  • PROGRAMS BY TYPE
    • WT SESSIONS
    • YES Program
    • OVERNIGHT CAMP
    • YOUTH CLINICS
    • YOUTH SUMMER CAMP
    • COMMUNITY MEETUPS
    • ALLYSK8® TRAINING
    • SCHOOLS
  • GET INVOLVED
    • DONATIONS >
      • GET ON BOARD 2023
      • GEAR DONATION
      • CORPORATE / EMPLOYER MATCHING
      • GIVING TUESDAY 2022
      • SUPRISE ME! ART SHOW
    • EMPLOYMENT
    • VOLUNTEER
    • PARTNER
    • SPONSOR
    • NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP
    • COLLABS