Were you a "little shredder," or you did you start skiing later in life and are amazed by the youngsters who seem to have no fear because they learned to ski almost as soon as they learned to walk?

Skiing comes easily to them as they deftly maneuver trees, soar over jumps and ski backwards down the slopes.  Their squeals of excitement and contagious laughter bring smiles to your face and plenty of chuckles on the chairlifts as they share their epic adventure stories.

But not all youth have the opportunity to experience those rad and heart skipping moments because, let’s face it, skiing is an expensive sport.  Lift tickets, gloves, ski jackets and pants, long underwear, skis, boots, goggles, helmets, poles – it all adds up.

Several years ago, Emily Coombs realized many of her children’s classmates were not able to enjoy Jackson Hole’s signature sport.  Not only were they missing on the ski slopes, but they were missing out on building friendships and physical activity necessary for all children. 

In September of 2012, Emily launched the Doug Combs Foundation in honor of her late husband, to provide low-income and middle-class children the opportunity to join their friends on the slopes.  Using her own savings, she enrolled 28 students in the Snow King Winter Sports School, providing ski rentals, instruction and lift tickets.  Doug’s former sponsors, K2, Marmot and Smith stepped up to help Emily and offered their support with clothing and gear.  The program has been so successful that by 2016, 160 children have participated and the demand continues to grow.  Today the Doug Coombs Foundation has expanded beyond skiing and offers a variety of opportunities for students including soccer camps, mountain climbing and hiking.

The Doug Coombs Foundation is committed to:

·      Breaking down cultural and economic barriers 

·      Early intervention

·      Encouraging children to believe that anything is possible

·      Building friendships through shared adventures

·      The importance of experiencing profound joy

·      Improved academic performance through increased self confidence

·      Cultivating a healthy lifestyle and a passion for nature and the outdoors.

Watching a child grow in confidence whether in life, on the slopes or in school is a priceless experience.  In our unique community, the Doug Combs Foundation is blending skiing, outdoor adventure, team building, self-confidence and friendships to lift up and encourage the next generation who may not have the opportunity otherwise.

To learn more about the Foundation and how you can support their efforts, please visit their website at  http://dougcoombsfoundation.com/.