Danielle ‘Skate Boss’ Barnett Inspires Lowcountry Kids through Skating

Danielle ‘Skate Boss’ Barnett Inspires Lowcountry Kids through Skating

In North Charleston, South Carolina, Danielle Barnett, affectionately known as ‘Skate Boss,’ is inspiring kids to persevere and embrace the outdoors. Enthusiasm and skill lace up in her roller skates, a passion that has driven her since she was only eight years old and growing up in the projects of Washington, D.C.

Skating: A Lifelong Passion Turned Mission

The city had built a skating rink at Anacostia Park, which became Barnett’s sanctuary and stress-relief spot whenever her mother was able to spare time. Fast forward, and that early foundation has propelled her into making a difference in the Lowcountry community.

After serving in the Air Force and moving to Charleston, Barnett realized the lack of recreational activities for children in the area. As such, her love for skating transformed into a higher calling. “I really asked God to show me what I can do to help and have fun too,” Barnett said.

In 2021, she started sharing her passion for skating, her collection boasting around 70 pairs of skates. She aimed to prompt the youth to interact with the outdoors more and engage in something that taught structure, balance and groundedness.

Skate Boss: Changing Lives One Skate at a Time

Whether community events or parties, Barnett, as the Skate Boss, provides skates, lays a smooth surface, and fills the aesthetic with her signature groove. Her mission is to offer a positive environment where children and adults can remain active and confront their fears, one skate at a time.

“I just want to really have an opportunity to give something back,” she said. With benefits to both physical and mental health, skating, according to Barnett, is a safe haven for stress relief and combating obesity. Furthermore, she understands the significance of maintaining good mental health, which she believes skating aids.

“When you’re on those skates, you really don’t have anything to think about but not falling,” she added.

Lessons Beyond the Rink

However, Barnett’s passion project extends beyond teaching skating skills. She’s determined to impart life lessons to her students, emphasizing the importance of resilience. “It’s okay to fall…But make sure that you know when you fall, you can get up. You don’t have to stay down,” Barnett expressed.

This admirable endeavor by the Skate Boss serves as a testament to her perseverance and the lessons she aims to pass onto the next generation of skaters. As she continues to glide through her mission, Barnett hopes to instill greater resilience and zest for life among the youth of Lowcountry, South Carolina.


Author: HERE Charleston

HERE Charleston

Recent Posts

Hurricane Helene Causes Nearly $200 Million in Damage to South Carolina’s Timber Industry

Hurricane Helene Leaves $194 Million Impact on South Carolina Timber Industry Horry County, S.C. —…

12 hours ago

Charges Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Dismissed Amid Legal Proceedings

Charges Dismissed Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Columbia, S.C. - Suspended South Carolina forward…

12 hours ago

Columbia Woman Surprised by Large Snake in Bathroom

Columbia Woman Encounters Snake in Bathroom Columbia, South Carolina – In a surprising incident early…

12 hours ago

Execution of Inmate Richard Moore Marks South Carolina’s First Execution in 13 Years Amid Racial Controversy

Spartanburg, South Carolina Richard Moore, a 59-year-old inmate, was executed on Friday evening in South…

12 hours ago

Burglary Attempt Leads to Arrest of Repeat Offender in North Charleston

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – Burglary Gone Wrong Leads to Arrest! In a bustling neighborhood in…

14 hours ago