Steve Larosiliere - Photo by Francois Portmann

There’s a popular sociological argument referred to as “nature versus nurture”.  The argument debates the effect environment has on our lives, and to what degree.  If we characterize our environment by the collection of options available, these options play a defining role in life.  It follows then, the more good options we present to children, the better.

Now, take a moment to consider the limited options available to a child from a single-parent, lower income household.  As the Director for Stoked Mentoring, Steve Larosiliere considers the limited options available to these children every day.  Steve created Stoked with the mission to develop successful teens with opportunity, knowledge, mentoring, and coaching.  He points out, “these children may not have the opportunities in life that some of us take for granted.” Stoked partners “at risk” youth with successful professional adults to learn to skate, snowboard, and surf.  Basically, Stoked presents good opportunities to kids who need them.  

Growing up with foster children, Steve developed an unconventional perspective on family and community that is refreshing and enlightening.  He is very familiar with the children in his program, and he understands that connecting with these kids is the key to mentoring them.  

Please enjoy this story about Stoked and Steve’s passion to create new opportunities for kids.  The photos were taken by Francois Portmann at the first Skate Mentor session during the summer of 2005.  Also, please visit the Stoked website at www.stokedmentoring.org, and check out our upcoming art auction to benefit the program.

Photo by Francois Portmann