"The Spot," a do-it-yourself skatepark built by local skateboarders, occupies an unused tennis court on Syracuse's east side. Local skaters banded together to build the park after several popular skate spots around the city were put off-limits.
After being told by his sister to stop flipping his eyelids, Mao Robinson poses for a photo at "The Spot," a do-it-yourself skatepark on Syracuse's east side. Older skateboarders at the park have keep Mao safe when he's there, and even passed their old skateboarding gear on to Mao.
Mao Robinson spends an evening at "The Spot,", a do it yourself skatepark on Syracuse's east side. The older riders at the park have taken on the collective role as big brother, making sure Mao stays safe when he's at the park.
Mao Robinson skates over a ramp at "The Spot," a do-it-yourself skatepark on Syracuse's east side. When Mao isn't busy with church, family or school, he spends his time at the park.
Mao Robinson peaks out of his bedroom while getting ready to go to his older cousin's soccer game. Mao, who just returned from church, went to the game with his older brother.
Mao Robinson waits to eat lunch with his sister, Dolly, at his family's home in Syracuse. Mao's older sister, Rhoda, background, makes baked ziti for the first time.
Mao Robinson helps his younger brother, Gideon, into the the car on their way to church. Faith and family play a central role in Mao's life, attending church on Saturdays and Sundays each weekend with his immediate and extended family.
Mao Robinson dances to music during a church service in Syracuse. Faith and family play a central role in Mao's life, attending church on Saturdays and Sundays each weekend with his immediate and extended family.
Mao Robinson plays with some friends during a church service in Syracuse. Faith and family play a central role in Mao's life, attending church on Saturdays and Sundays each weekend with his immediate and extended family.
Mao Robinson, along with his mother Eugenie and cousin Liesse, wait for a ride home after church in Syracuse. Faith and family play a central role in Mao's life, attending church on Saturdays and Sundays each weekend with his immediate and extended family.
Mao Robinson runs up a ramp at "The Spot," a do-it-yourself skatepark on Syracuse's east side. When not busy with church, family or school, Mao spends his time at the skatepark.
