These kids are so desensitized to violence and, especially girls, don’t have much opportunity for games or sports. Percovich is trying to open a skatepark, Skateistan, so the kids have a safe place to practice.

Percovich is also thinking ahead to when the girls he’s teaching reach puberty and, according to local customs, are not allowed to be in a co-ed class. Skateistan will have separate facilities for girls; many families hope times will change, but realize change will not come quickly or easily.

We know sports and other after-school activities help kids grow into more productive and happy adults. In somewhere like Kabul, where barely have school supplies, much less playground equipment, programs like Skateistan could really make a difference.

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