Skate AC will host a free community celebration Saturday, Nov. 21, at Uptown Skatepark in Atlantic City to honor Jayden Barger, a young skateboarder who was struck and killed by a vehicle while traveling to the skatepark earlier this year.
The memorial event will bring together family members, friends and community organizations for an afternoon of remembrance, music and giveaways. The start time has not yet been announced.
Fusion Church, which has locations in Egg Harbor Township and Ventnor, is donating 30 bicycles. The celebration will also include giveaways of 15 new skateboards, Vans sneakers, Showboat arcade and water park tickets, and other prizes. Free pizza and refreshments will be available.
LaDonna Marie, a Skate AC student and childhood friend of Jayden, will perform an original song honoring him and the organization. The gathering will also include prayers and community tributes.
Memorial mural honors Jayden
A memorial mural at Uptown Skatepark, created by artist BKFOXX and commissioned by Atlantic City nonprofit Create 48, pays tribute to Jayden. Based on a photograph, the artwork depicts his smiling face at a place that held special meaning to him.
Jayden’s death has also prompted renewed calls for pedestrian safety improvements near the skatepark. According to Skate AC, Atlantic City Council unanimously advanced a proposed stop sign near the location of the crash. The proposal still requires a final vote before installation can proceed.
“Jayden was everything childhood should be — full of life, curiosity, adventure, and joy,” said Jason Klotz, founder and executive director of Skate AC. “We can’t change what happened, but we can make sure his life continues to inspire love, generosity, and meaningful change.”
Skate AC, also known as Skate All Communities, provides free skateboarding lessons, mentorship and youth programs. The nonprofit is organizing the celebration with Fusion Church, Atlantic City Parks & Recreation, Create 48 and other community partners.
Event details: Saturday, Nov. 21, at Uptown Skatepark, Massachusetts and Melrose avenues, Atlantic City. Admission is free. The start time and official event flyer will be announced later.
For information, visit skateac.org.
