Scholarships or grants from this fund support avalanche safety education and equipment purchases for teens in the Southeast region through the Coastal Alaska Avalanche Center.
Cayman Ben Jardell walked his own path as a free spirit. A courageous human from the very beginning, there was nothing that Cayman believed he couldn’t do. Remembered for his sheer determination in taking on new things, his kind heart, and his genuine love for others. Cayman had a sweetness about him that made others feel comfortable, and a boldness that drew admiration from many.
While having skied at Eaglecrest since he was 3, in Middle School, Cayman unearthed a deep passion for the downhill ride. He loved the independence of skiing with friends, and the feeling of shredding steep slopes and air jumping. Impassioned, Cayman became an avid skier with dreams of travelling the world for big lines and deep powder. He wasn’t just a great skier and it wasn’t a sport to him. He saw the art in the mountains and found inner peace through skiing. For Cayman it was transcendental. Always sharing the feeling with his friends who were right there alongside him, he thrived with his community. When he couldn’t ski, he watched ski movies and videos to find the challenges that he wanted to take on himself. And no doubt he would have.
As Cayman matured he discovered camping, kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, frisbee golf and just hanging with friends around a campfire. His love for music was just burgeoning, loving the Grateful Dead, and saxophone filled jazz. Though, his relationship with water was particularly special. He loved to water ski, wakeboard, and especially, he loved to jump into the water; off bridges, boats or cliffs. He craved the thrill. When asked how he makes the jumps he replied, “you just have to commit to it.”
While Cayman was committed to living his best life, his risk management ultimately failed him, and on July 29th 2023, aged 17, he made one last jump into the Glory hole on South Douglas. Cayman and his striking smile will forever be missed, but never forgotten.
We hope future generations of Alaskan youth will find inspiration in Cayman’s life, and take heed of his mistake, so that life can be savored and shared for years to come. Your donation will help provide Southeast Alaskan teens with the tools and knowledge needed to enjoy the backcountry and come home safe.
To Donate
Donate by credit card using the link below, or make your check payable to Juneau Community Foundation. Please note the fund name in the memo field. Mail to: 641 W. Willoughby Ave., #206, Juneau, AK 99801. Please call us at 907-523-5450 or email info@juneaucf.org for information on donating stock, wiring funds, establishing a Fund, or naming the Juneau Community Foundation in your Will. This fund is a donor-advised fund and, therefore, unable to accept Qualified Charitable Distributions from IRAs.
Donate
