The Chitchat Newspaper recently spent time in the coastal surf haven of Puerto Escondido, located on the Pacific Coast of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Swinging in hammocks, sipping fresh coconuts, and enjoying lazy afternoons on the beach certainly has its charm. But while visiting this popular tourist destination, we found ourselves drawn to a different side of the community—one centred on skateboarding, faith and helping young people find purpose.
Our hosts were long-time friends Miguel and Erika Rios, owners of a local motorcycle rental and repair business that has gradually evolved into something much bigger than either of them originally imagined.
What began as a small skate shop tacked on to their business has grown into a thriving skateboard ministry known locally as Sk8 Church. Located in Puerto Escondido, the facility now features two halfpipes complete with harnesses, a flat-ground practice area, ramps, and rails where local children and teenagers can learn to skateboard in a safe and encouraging environment.
The couple’s son is a competitive skateboarder who represents the state of Oaxaca, travelling throughout Mexico as part of a skateboarding team. Miguel has also played a significant role in the local skateboarding community, helping construct the popular public skatepark at Parque Guajes in the La Punta district of Puerto Escondido.
While skateboarding is the attraction that brings young people through the gate, Miguel and Erika’s vision runs much deeper.
The couple are acutely aware of the challenges facing many young people throughout Mexico. Crime, drugs, and poverty are realities that can easily shape a young person’s future. Rather than focus on those stereotypes, they have chosen to create a culture built on encouragement, friendship, and love.
A guiding bible verse for the couple was John 3:16-17.
God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. God did not send the Son into the world that He might judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.
Their ministry welcomes everyone.
Skateboarding lessons are provided completely free of charge. Throughout the week, volunteers teach at local skateparks as well as at the family’s skate facility. Following each session, an informal non-denominational Bible study is offered in both Spanish and English when needed.
Miguel shared a story about his landlord recently increasing the rent after learning he wanted to expand the facility with additional ramps. The landlord reasoned that he would generate more income, but was surprised to discover that the skate ministry generated no income at all.
That didn’t deter Miguel.
The additional expense is covered through the family’s motorcycle repair and rental business, which helps fund the ministry and allows the lessons to remain free for local and visiting children.
Parents regularly attend the sessions and express their gratitude for the positive influence the program has on their children and the wider community.
During our visit, we witnessed countless examples of selfless generosity. One young state representative skater found himself out of work after a raging fire destroyed his workplace. Miguel responded by offering him work and supplying skateboarding gear, ensuring he remained connected to the community and still able to skate.
In a world where many people ask, “What’s in it for me?”, those who freely give their time, skills, and resources stand out.
That is exactly what we found at Sk8 Church.
The Chitchat Newspaper was pleased to lend a hand during our visit, assisting with repairs and improvements to several ramps and contributing towards the development of a new website. Once completed, the site will allow local supporters and international visitors to purchase merchandise, make donations and help support the future growth of the ministry.
For Miguel and Erika, however, success isn’t measured in dollars.
It’s measured one life at a time.
Local Skate Shop can be found on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/localsk8_shop/
Published July 2026. Chitchat Newspaper.