Mission
Heart Kicks uses creative practice, storytelling, and restoration as pathways to mental health, wellness, connection, and collective possibility. Grounded in evidence informed approaches, we curate integrous spaces where people can make meaning from their experiences, deepen connection to self and others, build community, imagine new futures, and spark change through care, advocacy, and creation.
Vision
We envision communities where people feel deeply connected to themselves and one another, have the freedom to create and express who they are, and have the support to heal, grow, imagine new possibilities, and shape the worlds around them.
Values
Connection. Creation. Community. These principles ground how we gather, how we create, and how we care for one another.
From Sole to Soul
Two participants showing off the kicks they customized together
Heart Kicks holds space for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disabled youth to use shoes as a gateway to their authentic selves. We restore more than sneakers — we restore stories, pride, and purpose.
211
people served
7
community partners
95%
felt part of a community
91%
learned a mental health skill
01 — Laces to Lessons
Where the work is happening
2023
- University of Southern California — 21 participants
2024
- University of Southern California — 13 participants
- San Pedro High School, San Pedro CA — 18 participants
2025
- University of Southern California — 18 participants
- San Pedro High School, San Pedro CA — 18 participants
- Cal State Long Beach — 14 participants
- Fremont High School — 23 participants
- George Washington Prep — 12 participants
2026
- University of Southern California — TBD participants
- San Pedro High School, San Pedro CA — 18 participants
- Cal State Long Beach — 14 participants
- Da Vinci Connect — 20 participants
- Women's Health Programs and Innovation — 14 participants
Agree or strongly agree
Out of 211 people served, 168 completed surveys. Percentages are rounded to the nearest whole number.
95%
I learned how to restore shoes during this workshop.
95%
This workshop helped me feel like I was part of a community.
91%
I learned at least one skill to support my mental health.
Words from the sole
"My favorite part was getting to gather with people and bond, we shared laughs and feelings making it feel like a safe space."
"It feels like I accomplished something within myself… realizing I finished high school. It symbolizes hope, potential, and execution."
"This workshop reaffirmed for me how LGBTQIA+ people also need a place to be comfortable in and be cared for."
People come for the shoes.
They stay for the community.
We're expanding our community of support — offering more spaces for youth to center mental health, emotional well-being, and creative expression.
Partner with Heart Kicks