At Sharpe Skills Non-Profit, we are driven by a mission to empower individuals and communities to reach their fullest potential through holistic wellness, education, community development, environmental sustainability, and agriculture. Our work is rooted in the belief that every person deserves access to resources that foster physical, mental, and
social well-being.
our leader
Shelton Sharpe, founder of SharpeSkills, embodies a dynamic blend of athletic achievement and educational leadership, deeply influenced by his upbringing in the vibrant community of Santa Monica, California. A diverse melting pot in terms of ethnicity, socio-economic status, creativity, and political thought particularly during the 1960s, 70s and 80’s, Santa Monica provided a rich backdrop for Shelton’s development. As a four-sport star in football, basketball, baseball, and track and field, Shelton was also prominently featured in Nike’s iconic “Just Do It” advertising campaign. Shelton's athletic journey and humble beginnings in seaside Santa Monica laid the groundwork for his future roles in mentorship and community service and served as the blueprint for Sharpe Skills.
Over a distinguished career spanning three decades, Shelton has notably impacted education and wellness, with a special emphasis on inclusivity for children, adults, and the elderly. Shelton worked at Vista Del Mar, where he specialized in recreational therapy and physical education, focusing on adolescents aged 12-18, including those in the Julian Singer Autistic Program. This experience honed his skills in addressing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent youths, preparing him for his subsequent impactful tenure at New Roads School. At New Roads, he further expanded his expertise, notably working with Spectrum students and advancing in various roles including Department Chair, Physical Education Teacher, multi-sport Coach, and ultimately as a Middle School Dean of Student Well-being. His work has consistently emphasized inclusivity and the importance of tailoring educational approaches to meet diverse student needs. Shelton believes that every human being regardless of age, creed, color, or background can achieve success and wellness with a personalized, loving coaching approach.
Shelton’s professional journey is punctuated by numerous accolades, including recognition from the Los Angeles Board of Education, the Venice Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, and Congressional honors, all highlighting his dedication and impact in the field of education. . Through his leadership, SharpeSkills remains a beacon of empowerment and positive change, demonstrating the profound influence of integrating personal growth with broad-based community enrichment. Ultimately it is Shelton’s unique ability to translate personal achievements into community benefits that truly defines his legacy and the continuing success of SharpeSkills.
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
Under Shelton’s dynamic leadership, SharpeSkills has evolved from a sports training initiative into a robust nonprofit organization advocating holistic health and wellness programs. These programs, innovative in design and inclusive in nature, cater to individuals across all ages and abilities, including special needs and neurodivergent communities. Our services—ranging from rejuvenating retreats in Jamaica to innovative fitness routines and community-enriching field days—emphasize personal growth, health, and engagement in environmental and community stewardship.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our vision extends beyond individual health, aiming to create a thriving, interconnected community where sustainable practices and mutual support are the norms. Through comprehensive wellness programs and community-driven initiatives, we envision a world where every individual can lead a healthy, fulfilling life while contributing positively to their community.
Our Impact
Our Mission
Our Impact
The impact of Sharpe Skills is measured not just by the health outcomes of our participants but also by the strength and resilience of our communities. We collaborate closely with Educational Institutions, Non-Profits and Notable Foundations worldwide to amplify our efforts, ensuring that each initiative not only meets immediate needs but also fosters long-term sustainability and self-sufficiency.
Integrating with the Community
Central to our approach is the integration of our activities with local and global community efforts. Whether it’s through partnerships with
local schools in the Duncan's Literacy Project or collaboration with environmental groups in the Duncans Sustainability Project, we aim to weave our services into the fabric of the community. SharpeSkills initiatives span a wide array of activities from agriculture to gardening and the creation of comprehensive remote learning curricula for physical education, all designed to support and enrich communities.
Join Us
At Sharpe Skills, every program is an opportunity to build healthier, stronger communities. We invite you to join us in this mission to transform lives and landscapes, one person and one community at a time. Together, we can make a difference that resonates well beyond our immediate reach.
Our Partners
Our work is supported and enriched by a network of community partners, including local businesses, non-profits, and international organizations. These partnerships enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive services and execute initiatives that have a lasting impact on the communities we serve.
Initiatives
Duncans Community Development Project
Central to this initiative is the collaboration with local fishermen, where participants engage in the restoration and construction of boats and fish traps. This effort not only supports the local economy but also fosters a connection between participants and traditional Jamaican maritime practices, enhancing their appreciation and understanding of the community's cultural heritage.
Additionally, the project includes the development of community food gardens, which align with SharpeSkills’ senior services. These gardens are designed to provide fresh, locally sourced produce to seniors and other community members, improving nutritional access and promoting healthy living. Furthermore, the initiative extends to helping families establish their own gardens at home, empowering them to sustainably produce food and fostering self-reliance.
Through these integrated activities, the Community Development Project aims to strengthen community bonds, enhance local livelihoods, and promote environmental sustainability. Participants not only contribute to tangible improvements in their community but also experience personal growth and wellness through active participation in these transformative efforts. This project exemplifies SharpeSkills' holistic approach to wellness, combining physical health, community service, and environmental stewardship into a comprehensive wellness framework.
Duncans Sustainability Project
The Duncans Sustainability Project, a key initiative of SharpeSkills in partnership with various Discovery Bay entities. This project represents a proactive commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship in Duncans & Discovery Bay, Jamaica. This project is designed to integrate educational programs with hands-on conservation activities, fostering a deep understanding of the unique marine biology and environmental challenges of island and coastal habitats.
Central to this initiative are comprehensive educational components that include curriculum development focused on sustainability, environmental protection, species preservation, responsible tourism, and the intricacies of living in an island environment. These educational efforts aim to equip local students, retreat participants, and the wider community with the knowledge and skills necessary to actively contribute to environmental conservation.
In addition to theoretical learning, the Duncans Environmental Management Project incorporates practical, action-oriented activities such as sea floor clean-ups through snorkeling and regular beach clean-ups. These activities not only help mitigate the impact of pollution and human activities on marine and coastal ecosystems but also provide participants with hands-on experience in environmental care.
By partnering with local experts and organizations, the Duncans Sustainability Project creates a collaborative framework for environmental education and active stewardship. This initiative not only enhances the ecological health of the region but also strengthens community involvement and awareness, ensuring a sustainable future for Duncans, Trelawny Parish. Through such efforts, SharpeSkills demonstrates its dedication to fostering an environmentally conscious and proactive community.
DUNCANS COMMUNITY LITERACY PROJECT
The Duncan's Literacy Project, facilitated by SharpeSkills, is a cornerstone initiative in Duncans, Trelawny Parish, Jamaica. This comprehensive literacy and educational program is structured around three major prongs: the "Pick a Book'' program, summer literacy programs and curriculum, and "The Book House." This multifaceted approach is integral to SharpeSkills’ efforts to intertwine community participation with personal health development.
At the core of the initiative, the "Pick a Book" program provides local school children with access to a wide range of books collected through international donations from schools across the globe. This prong aims to enhance the availability of reading materials and foster a sustained interest in reading among students.
Additionally, the initiative places a strong emphasis on summer literacy programs and curriculum, designed to support educational activities when schools are not in session. This component ensures that literacy development continues year-round, providing crucial learning continuity for the community’s youth.
Expanding its reach beyond traditional educational settings, the project also includes "The Book House," which aims to bring books directly to community members, making reading resources accessible to all in Duncans.
Through these interconnected efforts, the Duncan's Literacy Project significantly enhances educational outcomes and cultivates a culture of reading in Trelawny Parish. SharpeSkills’ commitment to this project highlights its dedication to not only improving individual health through active engagement but also uplifting the entire community by enhancing literacy and education. This project is a prime example of how community-driven initiatives can have a profound impact on both personal and communal well-being.
our Services
FITNESS
SENIOR & FAMILY FOOD PROGRAM
JAMAICA RETREATS
SharpeSkills offers a highly specialized fitness program tailored to meet the individual needs of each participant. This comprehensive approach includes a variety of training modalities such as TRX and Rip Trainer Resistance Training Techniques, which leverage bodyweight to enhance strength and flexibility. The sessions are enriched with cardiovascular training to boost heart health, agility drills to improve coordination, and a mix of aerobic and anaerobic exercises to optimize energy usage. Additionally, the program incorporates yoga movements and stretches to promote flexibility and reduce injury risk.
At the core of the SharpeSkills fitness service is a holistic wellness philosophy that emphasizes not only physical fitness but also personal growth aspects such as self-awareness and self-confidence. The program advocates for life-long fitness habits, complemented by education on nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices, empowering participants to maintain a balanced and healthy life. This well-rounded approach ensures that each individual not only achieves their fitness goals but also embraces a sustainable health-conscious lifestyle.
JAMAICA RETREATS
SENIOR & FAMILY FOOD PROGRAM
JAMAICA RETREATS
SharpeSkills proudly offers a transformative 7-day retreat in Jamaica, designed for high school students from the 10th grade onward, college students, educators, administrators, and leadership groups from across the globe. This retreat focuses on wellness, personal growth, community building, environmental stewardship, and active participation in social change. Set against the stunning backdrop of Jamaica, participants have the unique opportunity to develop personally, forge strong relationships, and positively impact the local community. This immersive experience not only enriches the lives of attendees but also leaves a lasting imprint on the Jamaican community through meaningful engagement and social initiatives.
MENS MENTAL HEALTH RETREAT
SharpeSkills offers a specialized 7-day retreat in Jamaica that provides a safe, healing, life nourishing environment that provides an opportunity for men to start the healing process.
31% of males will experience depression at some point in their lives, according to 2023 statistics, and 9% will feel depressed or anxious on a regular basis. Three-thirds of males use medicine, but only 25% seek treatment. A mental health condition affects 1–4 persons (both men and women). You can be mentally well without being ill.
SENIOR & FAMILY FOOD PROGRAM
SENIOR & FAMILY FOOD PROGRAM
FIELD PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS & SPECIAL ABILITIES
SharpeSkills introduces a thoughtful Senior Program designed to support seniors who are immobile due to illness or physical therapy and rehabilitation limitations. This service operates on a subscription basis, delivering essential nourishment and supplies twice a month directly to the participants' homes. Each delivery is thoughtfully composed of fresh juices made from locally sourced fruits and vegetables, ensuring seniors receive the vital nutrients needed for their health and well-being.
In addition to juices, the service includes water, basic household products, and a selection of fresh, locally sourced produce such as fruits, vegetables, poultry, and fish. This program not only provides nutritional support but also eases the daily lives of seniors by ensuring they have regular access to healthy food and essential items. SharpeSkills' commitment to using local sources also supports the community's economy and promotes sustainability. This comprehensive approach ensures that seniors living with mobility challenges can maintain a balanced diet and a high quality of life without the need to travel for groceries, embodying SharpeSkills' dedication to holistic wellness and care.
FIELD PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS & SPECIAL ABILITIES
FIELD PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS & SPECIAL ABILITIES
FIELD PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS & SPECIAL ABILITIES
SharpeSkills offers a specialized field program designed to cater to the unique needs of the growing older adult population (aged 60 and above) and individuals with special abilities. This service focuses on rehabilitation fitness, helping participants who are aiming to maintain or regain full functionality following illness, injury, or mobility challenges associated with aging and disabilities.
The program is meticulously structured to aid in rebuilding muscle strength and endurance, enhancing overall flexibility, and improving mobility. Through personalized training plans, participants engage in carefully tailored exercises that ensure safe yet effective workouts, addressing their specific health conditions and mobility limitations. SharpeSkills' approach not only focuses on physical rehabilitation but also promotes independence and improves the quality of life for seniors and those with special needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and well-being in a supportive community environment.
FIELD DAYS
FIELD PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS & SPECIAL ABILITIES
FIELD DAYS
SharpeSkills organizes engaging Wellness Field Days tailored for primary students, (lower secondary, upper secondary, third cycle grades 5-13. These dynamic events are designed to immerse students in a full day of activities that promote physical and overall wellness. Each field day features a variety of stations and events that cater to diverse interests and learning outcomes. Participants can engage in fitness circuits that challenge their physical abilities, practice mindfulness and flexibility through yoga, and express creativity in nature art.
In addition to physical activities, the days are enriched with hands-on experiences in gardening and agriculture, allowing students to connect with the environment and learn about sustainable practices. The inclusion of environmental stewardship projects further enhances the experience, blending physical activity with community service and relationship building. These field days not only foster a sense of community among students but also instill lifelong habits of health, wellness, and environmental responsibility, making them a cornerstone of SharpeSkills' commitment to holistic education.
Through the Lens of Giving: SharpeSkills in Pictures
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Donations (JAMAICA RETREAT link)
This retreat offers a transformative experience that emphasizes personal growth, community building, and active engagement in social change. Participants gain the opportunity to develop personally and build strong relationships, all while making a tangible impact on the community.
STANDARD Donation
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission. All donations will support our goal of providing, Free services, student retreat sponsorships, student programs, environmental stewardship efforts, initiatives, materials, supplies, events, paid internships, short term employment.
Contact Us
We can't wait to see you in person!
Hours
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
