One Can, One Brick at a Time

One Can, One Brick at a Time

By Brooke McGee

How do you build a skate park? One brick at a time. Taking those words to heart, young inspiration found right within our community is doing something similar, by collecting one can at a time. With the largest single donation of this kind so far, 12-year old Seth Noble has generously donated to the Portage Family Skate Park project, and with more to come.

We are all aware how one small stone thrown into a pond creates ripples, ripples that radiate outward into the surrounding water. Inspiration works in a similar way and Seth has been inspiring others around him to make a difference as well.

“This is a big thing for Seth,” his mother Jenny Noble said. “He always wants to go to the skate park in Baraboo, but with busy schedules and the distance, that’s not always possible.” Seth’s solution? He decided he was going to take matters into his own hands- and began collecting cans.

Seth’s hard work was commended by the committee and he received one of PFSP’s one-of-a-kind T-shirts for his contribution and ongoing efforts. His enthusiasm too was contagious and the beaming smile that he brought with him passed easily through the members and those hearing of his hard work.

Just like the ripples in the pond, Seth’s efforts have radiated out, gaining the full backing of his parents. From there, they too have begun collecting and accepting cans from friends and neighbors, even talking to businesses in Madison in attempts to coordinate fundraising efforts on behalf of the PFSP.

“I like the location,” Seth told us. “Having things to do all at one place (Goodyear Park) for different ages is awesome. We are practically the only town without (a skate park),” he added.

Although donations can be made in countless ways, Portage’s local Keith’s Recycling company is currently accepting donations on behalf of the PFSP. Beginning in October of last year, they launched their campaign of support, happily taking can donations and taking care of the rest for those who do so. Now, their generosity has expanded even more and Aluminum, Copper, Brass, Stainless Steel and Iron can be donated specifically for the park. Those who wish to share their donation or a portion of it merely need to let them know and the funds will be allocated onwards to the PFSP. This is an excellent way to not only show your support for the community, but to participate in important recycling efforts that will help Portage remain clean and more self-sustaining.

In regards to one brick at a time, bricks are a realistic option as well. The PFSP is currently featuring a Brick Fundraiser on the main page of their website, portageskatepark.org. Bricks can be engraved with a minimum donation of $125, stamping your efforts in stone for future generations to see. Teams are encouraged for those who wish to band together and contribute what they can towards brick donations.

Despite cans and bricks, the way in which you can show your support as Seth has is endless. Even word of mouth, wearing the “swag” or volunteer work (hey, it will look great on your college resume!) can help accomplish this goal.

Business and individuals are also invited to donate in-kind. What does that mean? Take our newsletter for example, it is graciously printed and donated by Portage’s O’Brion Agency, a printing and copy company. Advertising on your personal website, construction material donations or even security services at large upcoming events such as the 2^nd Annual Portage Skate Park Marathon are ways you can make a difference.

The Portage Family Skate Park project can be followed on Twitter at @Portagesk8park for updates on events such as the marathon. Curious? Maps, details and registration forms can be found online at Portageskatepark.org.

https://portageskatepark.org/about-pfsp/pfsp-recycling-program/