A Saskatoon skateboarding group that supports marginalized youth recently received a generous donation from the family of the late graffiti artist and skateboarder, Eli Kerslake. The $16,000 contribution has provided the local organization with a significant financial boost, which will be used to supply skateboarding equipment, lessons, and other forms of support to low-income youth in Saskatchewan. The group has named its scholarship the “Elijah Kerslake Skateboard Scholarship,” which provides skateboards and shoes to youth from low-income families or those facing other challenges, helping to ease the financial burden on families.
Right to Skate, the nonprofit group, recently hosted a celebration at Lions Skate Park, featuring free pizza, a painting wall, and skateboarding activities. The event marked the single largest donation the group has ever received, made in honour of Eli Kerslake by his family. Lynn Bjorndalen and her family donated over $16,000 to Right to Skate on behalf of her late son Eli, with hopes that the contribution will enable other marginalized youth to experience the joy of skateboarding.
Participants in the program express that skateboarding has given them a sense of freedom and belonging. One such participant, Bryson Sheldon, has benefited greatly from the support provided by Right to Skate. Sheldon has been skateboarding ever since he received a skateboard, shoes, and additional support from the group. He describes skateboarding as a source of peace and liberation, saying, “Skating is a way for me to express myself. I used to be afraid to try new things, but now I feel like I can do anything.” Sheldon and other members of Right to Skate attended the celebration, which welcomed anyone interested in supporting the local skateboarding community or giving skateboarding a try.
Right to Skate manager Sarah Kelley expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasizing that it will greatly benefit many children. Kelley also shared her personal connection to Elijah and her appreciation for this contribution by attributing their scholarship to Elijah Kerslake and honouring his memory. Right to Skate is an award-winning nonprofit in Saskatoon that supports marginalized communities using skateboarding. The group helps build self-confidence, persistence, physical activity, creativity, and emotional well-being.
Skateboarding is an alternative to team sports, offering a positive outlet for energetic children and fostering lifelong friendships within the community. Right to Skate aims to make skateboarding inclusive and accessible in Saskatoon as the group is advocating for an indoor skatepark in the city. The group is fundraising and seeking partnerships for their own space –you can learn more and contribute to the group here.
