Mentors from the Northside Community Centre YMCA have returned to Glendale Skatepark and will be back at Red Deer Skatepark downtown starting in July.
Weather permitting, mentors will be on-site to reach out to children and youth and develop their skateboard, BMX and scooter skills.
“It’s really a blend of skill building and perfecting moves, and also just creating an environment of accepting and belonging,” said Amy Komarniski, YMCA general manager.
The YMCA Skatepark Mentorship program was piloted in 2021 at Glendale Skatepark, and after a successful season, Border Paving Ltd. stepped up with a generous donation to make it possible for the YMCA to staff the summer program in 2022 and 2023.
Related:
Red Deer city council approves YMCA partnership
Komarniski said the program at both parks has been well received by experienced skatepark enthusiasts, whether they use skateboards, BMX bikes, or scooters, and those who are new to the sports.
“Mentors will help teach participants how to use the skatepark effectively and safely so they can avoid some of that conflict that comes up when you have users who know the flow of the park and users who don’t.
“Skateparks are an interesting space because they really are self-directed. There’s no registration. There’s no procedure. You just go and enjoy it any time.”
She said families say they feel more comfortable about their children’s safety with mentors on site, and many skatepark users also enjoy the time they spend with mentors.
Community and corporate support has also been amazing, which included making skateboards and helmets available to be loaned out, she added.
“There are skateboards and helmets and all the safety gear necessary for users if they want to learn but have never had the opportunity, or have not yet invested in equipment. It doesn’t need to be a barrier to come to participate.”
Related:
Cued choreographed ballroom dancing comes to Red Deer
Youth can find YMCA skatepark mentors at Glendale Skatepark Monday to Friday from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m., and noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays until the end of June. Starting in July, their weekday hours will expand to 12:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Mentors will be at the Red Deer Skatepark downtown from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday starting in July.
Komarniski said mentors at the downtown park will also be available to play interactive games in the nearby greenspace.
“If it’s not skateboarding that you’re interested in specifically, that doesn’t need to deter you from coming to participate.”
For more information visit ymcanab.ca/skatepark.
szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
