In 2007, Nikki and J.D. Carabin opened their garage to local skaters, launching what would become the very first Friday Night Skate.
 

It started small—J.D. would visit local skate parks with nothing more than a cooler of water and a deep love for kids who often went unnoticed. Soon, Nikki and J.D. began inviting skaters to their garage every Friday night. Before long, nearly 20 kids were showing up each week—many arriving right after school and staying until midnight.
 

No one was calling to check where they were. No one was asking if they’d eaten.
 

J.D. shared, “My wife and I sold anything of value to fund the ministry. Eventually, we sold our home as well.” In the years that followed, a dozen young people found shelter with the Carabins—escaping neglect, emotional or physical harm, and even substance abuse.
 

Over time, Serious JuJu has experienced both highs and lows. Yet, during its most difficult seasons, community members, local businesses, and faith organizations showed up with unwavering love and support. For that, we are deeply grateful.

“I’d searched everywhere for this thing called love.
I went through life seeking something that would be the ultimate.”
— Christian Hosoi
 

Today, Serious JuJu meets in a new space at Kalispell's Gateway West Mall, and we are excited to welcome skaters into this new home.
 

Our Vision
To celebrate and strengthen community through skateboarding.
 

Our Mission
Serious JuJu is an indoor skatepark dedicated to creating a safe and healthy space. We see, feed, and strengthen youth and families throughout the Flathead Valley.
 

For hundreds of young people, Serious JuJu is the only safe place where they can truly connect. Here, community gathers. We are a dynamic and diverse group brought together by a shared love for skateboarding and a commitment to supporting one another. Every day of the week, kids come to our skatepark to stay active, support their mental and emotional well-being, and—through JuJu—their spiritual health as well.
 

Skaters are incredible athletes with much to teach. Skateboarding is more than a sport—it’s a way of life. It challenges individuals to make space for people of all skill levels, respect boundaries, and build each other up. Many who join Serious JuJu discover their lives enriched and their spirits restored through meaningful relationships within this community.
 

Serious JuJu is committed to celebrating life together and to seeing and supporting those who are too often overlooked.
 

“There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.”
— Nelson Mandela
 

Serious JuJu is a nonprofit community organization—serving skaters and so many more. What began with a small group has grown into a community that includes over 1,200 skaters and their families, along with volunteers, community leaders, donors, and partners. Moms, dads, grandparents, and caregivers all consider Serious JuJu part of their extended family.

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Together, we are a stronger, more connected community—for the kids and skaters who call this place home.