Keep AMPT Skateshop Alive
Donation protected
Ampt Skateshop has been the center of the skateboarding community in Arcata since it opened in 2002. Derek Russell grew up at the shop, from just a kid hanging around to an employee, skate camp counselor, and center of the scene. So it was a dream come true when he was able to buy Ampt in 2018, embodying the phrase “skater owned and operated” ever since.
These next words are difficult to write. Derek passed away suddenly on 7/31. He was on the first night of a camping trip surrounded by friends.
Derek poured his heart and soul into Ampt. It’s where countless kids got their first boards and back to school shoes. Derek would take time with every customer to get them the perfect setup. Ampt also helps run the city’s local skate camp, training the next generation of skateboarders.
But Ampt Skateshop is more than a store. It’s a community, a family, a safe space for anyone who needs it. And Derek was at the center of that, making everyone feel welcome and making sure they had what they needed to rip.
Anyone who knows Derek, whether for his whole life or just one interaction the shop, could see that he had the most kind, positive, and generous soul. He was also funny and badass and confident and so strong. He had a light inside him that touched everyone he met. We will grieve his loss forever.
Derek had two missions in life: have fun and keep Ampt going. He accomplished the first. We need you to make the second happen.
We are charting a permanent path forward, and in the meantime we are working on a plan to remain open in some capacity, to not only honor Derek but also provide people what they need to keep skating.
So as we navigate the many complicated legal hurdles ahead, we need your help to keep the shop afloat. We will need to pay rent and utilities, cover legal fees, order new boards and equipment and shoes, pay the bills for Vans and Nike and other important accounts, pay employees, and countless other things Derek had in his head that we are still figuring out.
Right now, we are setting a goal of $30,000. We know this is a lot of money and a lot people are not in a position to donate right now, but truly anything helps. We have been blown away by the outpouring of love and support for Derek. Keeping Ampt going is the best way to honor his memory.
With love and gratitude,
Isabel, Cecilia, & Nick
on behalf of the entire Arcata skate community and the Russell family
Organizer
Cecilia Rivera
Organizer
Arcata, CA