Community Involvement

COR helps underprivileged kids in Fresno

Corcoran prison staff present check to help Fresno kids.
From left are Chief Deputy Warden T. Campbell and Rodney Rodriguez of Fresno Skateboard Salvage.

The California State Prison, Corcoran (COR) incarcerated raised $2,591 to help kids in Fresno. The funds were donated to Fresno Skateboard Salvage.

The organization provides skateboards and accessories to underprivileged kids in Fresno, providing a positive outlet and family environment. Rodney Rodriguez, founder and president of Fresno Skateboard Salvage, arrived on prison grounds to accept the donation.

Rodriguez’s upbringing influenced his involvement in Fresno Skateboard Salvage. He said the organization was started so he could connect with kids who want to learn more about skateboarding. Because they remind him of his younger self, his organization gives kids in need the opportunity to be involved in skateboarding.

“I am fully blown away at the generosity of these men. From a place of no freedom, they voluntarily offered the freedom to skate to many Central Valley youth who would not have otherwise had the opportunity. I am so grateful. Skateboarding can be a real game changer for a child without direction,” Rodriguez said. “I am stoked to offer it to Fresno area kids with the help of the guys in Corcoran.”

Rodriguez said the money raised by COR will be used to purchase new skateboards and equipment for Fresno-area kids.

By Lt. Robert Clifton

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