This Sunday, September 14, while most people are still asleep, a dedicated group of skateboarders will gather at the Golden Skatepark for a powerful cause. From 4:30 am to 10:00 am, riders will take part in Sk8 Dark to Light, the first event of its kind in Golden.
The event is being organized by local business Semicolon Skateboards in collaboration with Sideways Strategies and the Golden Skateboard Association, as a fundraiser for the Golden Family Center, and is about much more than just skating.
Participants will ride to remember loved ones lost to suicide, raise awareness about suicide prevention, celebrate the connection and joy skateboarding can bring, and support local mental health initiatives.
The morning ride symbolizes the journey from darkness into light — a reminder of the importance of open conversations, community connection, and normalizing struggle. Proceeds from the event will go directly to the Golden Family Center, supporting vital mental health resources for the community.
“The Golden Family Center is deeply grateful to partner with Semicolon Skateboards and Sideways Strategies in bringing the first annual Sk8 Dark to Light event to our community. Inspired by Hull Services’ Push to Heal program, this initiative shines a light on the positive mental health impacts of skateboarding and raises awareness during Suicide Prevention Month this September.
Semicolon Skateboards and Sideways Strategies have taken the lead in organizing this meaningful fundraiser and awareness campaign, highlighting how skateboarding fosters resilience, belonging, and emotional regulation for youth. The Sk8 Dark to Light event is also closely aligned with Dr. Bruce Perry’s Neurosequential Model (NM), a developmentally-informed, biologically-respectful approach to supporting at-risk children and youth.
We are thrilled to see this powerful collaboration come to life in Golden and look forward to gathering with our community on Sunday for an event that combines movement, connection, and hope,” shared Katie Hodder, Executive Director of the Golden Family Center.
Despite the early hour, organizers hope the community will come out to support, bring a donation for the Family Center, and take part in an event that blends remembrance, resilience, and the power of coming together.
