Winter just got warmer for Portage la Prairie youth. The Portage Youth Hub and Youth for Christ (YFC) have launched an indoor skatepark, offering teens a space to ride, connect, and grow during the chilly months. Hosted weekly at the Youth Hub, the initiative blends skateboarding’s raw energy with a faith-backed, inclusive community—proving cold weather can’t stop the grind.
With Manitoba’s frosty winters limiting outdoor action, the indoor park is a lifeline for those who love the thrill of shredding.
“It’s only been two or so weeks. It started this month,” says Raine McKay, Youth Mentor at the Portage Youth Hub. “We’re hoping to do it until the end of winter. We’ve got Tuesday nights originally set up by Youth for Christ.”
McKay stresses the program’s goal: keeping kids active and fostering bonds. “The community here is really lovely, very connected, very uplifting. I thought I’d love to get more people interested and help out that way."
Behind the ramps lies YFC’s Skateboard Ministry, led by Patricio Stanley, Youth Skateboarding Minister.
“Skateboarding is the type of community that is very accepting, and it doesn’t discriminate,” says Stanley, who moved from Mexico years ago.
“Being able to connect with people in a way that barely requires words is just very supporting. Every time someone learns something new, it’s such a big deal and celebrated by everyone alike.”
For Stanley, skate culture mirrors YFC’s mission.
“Jesus in the Bible, he talks about treating everyone with respect and always being accepting of everyone. It’s always about accepting people as who they are, and that’s something that is important to me, and it’s important to YFC.”
The park isn’t just tricks—it’s an antidote to winter isolation. “Winter makes it harder to socialize,” McKay notes. Stanley adds, “Skateboarding breaks barriers. You don’t need language—just a board and courage.”
Organizers aim to keep the momentum rolling. The indoor skatepark runs Tuesdays (and additional days TBA) at the Portage Youth Hub. All skill levels are welcome.
People can follow Portage Youth Hub and YFC online for updates.