HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A Hopkinsville non-profit is inviting local youth to pour their creativity into revitalizing and revamping the Hopkinsville Skate Park by creating a one-of-a-kind mural.

“We want to welcome young artist to come and put their mark on the skate park in a positive way,” said Isaiah Pride, Founder and President of Dad’s House Inc. “We believe supporting the youth in this way will allow them to be proud of what they have accomplished and bring them together in to support their local community.”

Hopkinsville Skate Park in Hopkinsville, KY, on Oct. 10, 2023. (Wesley Irvin)

The Christian County non-profit Dads House Inc. teamed up with the Christian County Military Affairs Committee to make this idea a reality. His initial plans involved just cleaning up graffiti and protecting the park from negative graffiti in the future, but they deciding to include youth, and help them channel their artistic abilities by adding their own flair to the background of artwork being painted on the bowl of the skate park.

“As a youth and an adult, my artwork has saved me and I want to help other youth have an outlet that will help them,” Pride told Christian County Now. “Whether it is being creative or being active, I believe the youth need a place to flourish and feel safe. I believe it is important for youth to have a place where their creativity is welcomed, I want them to feel their presence and creativity are accepted and bring positivity to the community.”

Non-profit mission and event details

Dad’s House Inc. in Hopkinsville has the mission to provide vocational education, business development, and community support to individuals between the ages of 18-21. They are particularly focused on those who have faced adversity, supplying them the tools to reduce recidivism and excel by teaching hands on vocational skills in industries like concrete restoration and plastering.

During the Paint & Skate, professional artists will be on-site to lead the painting process. According to Dad’s House Inc., the final artwork will reflect an exciting and cohesive design concept.

The Fire Department will also be on site at the event with a truck and smoke house along with a small paint station for younger kids to paint custom feathers. Ice cream and food will also be served, along with other fun activities to make it a fun, community event and introduce youth to the non-profit. People are encouraged to bring their favorite yard game and chair and watch the community work together to bring the skate park back to life.

The event will take place on April 12 at the Hopkinsville Skate Park behind DeBow Recreation Complex from 10 a.m. through 2 p.m.

| DON’T MISS A STORY: Click here to sign up for our free weekly email newsletter