Raising Money for a Good Cause | Epworth Skate Park

(July 27, 2012) A group of area skateboarders have partnered with a Rehoboth Beach, Del., church to draw attention to — and raise money for — a skate park located on the church property.

Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, has had a skate park for some time. However, the aging ramps and other equipment were in need of some improvements.

Enter carpenter Chad Murr. A seasoned skater and ramp builder, Murr and a group of volunteers began rebuilding and expanding Epworth’s park in April.

“We have a core group of about six old-school skateboarders that has been donating time, tools and knowledge to help expand and secure the park’s longevity,” Murr said.

In June, the crew organized the first of many monthly “Skate Day” events. The idea, according to Murr, is to make “Epworth a safe, fun place to skate and see live music while raising public awareness for the need of such a facility.” Proceeds are used to maintain the existing park and to fund the ongoing expansion project.

“The kids seem to love it. Since the church has supported our idea of holding Skate Day once a month, more and more kids keep coming out from farther and farther away,” Murr said. “We try to hold a monthly meeting at the church to keep the lines of communication open as far as additional events [and] past events, bouncing ideas around and the likes.

“We now have parents showing up at these meetings with their kids because they want to be involved and help out as well,” he continued. “The church is nothing but supportive as well, which is awesome.”

The next Skate Day is set for Saturday, July 28. Skaters are invited to use the park, which features ramps and grind rails, from 2-6 p.m. From 5-9 p.m., there will be live music in the church’s Fellowship Hall by A Million Drones, Brixton Saint, The Flickjams and Ocean City’s Galaxy Collective.

There is no cost to participate in the “End of July Jam,” although a $5 donation and one canned food item are suggested. Food and drink will be available for purchase at the event. All proceeds will benefit the skate park project.

“The level of community spirit, support and response that we have been receiving from doing these events has just been overwhelming,” Murr said. “We have been receiving donations like clothing, skateboard accessories, gift certificates, and things from local businesses that we then give out as prizes for the contest winners at Skate Day.” For more information, search Skate Epworth on Facebook or e-mail ploughlin@epworth-rehoboth.org.