"My daughter was so elated when staff told her she was a natural skier. It gave her a healthy confidence boost that was much needed. Normally when I sign my kids up for things there is resistance but I never heard a single complaint for Boardslide. My kids actually said they wished there was more sessions! Thanks to the wonderful crew for allowing my kids to experience a new sport."

Parent of Myla & Heather, 23/24 Winter Campers
"It was GREAT to see the improvement Eli made from one season to the next. Really impressed by the volunteer coaches. He really enjoyed hanging out with friends, being competitive, and feeling more confident in his skills."

Parent of Eli, 23/24 Winter Camper
"[My son enjoyed] literally everything about winter camp! It's such an encouraging and positive environment. The staff are very supportive and kind."

Parent of Jalen, 23/24 Winter Camper
"My kids loved getting to learn how to do something new! This organization, staff and volunteers were kind and inclusive and made my kids feel supported and challenged to push their limits in a safe and caring way. I want all kids who want to try boarding or skiing to be able to experience this.”

Parent of Sonja & Elsa - 22/23 Winter Campers
“This was an incredible opportunity for children to try a sport they otherwise could not. For my son, who is autistic, trying new activities can be stressful. The volunteers and instructors were very welcoming and friendly! They differentiated instruction to meet children’s needs. My son gained confidence and is proud of his progress. We are very grateful.”

-Anonymous parent of 22/23 Winter Camper

2023/2024 Winter Camp Report

Boardslide Mission’s Winter Camp for All 23/24 was a success and an amazing experience for our campers!

THE MISSION

This 4 week learn to ski/snowboard camp was designed to primarily serve youth from historically marginalized communities (black/indigenous/people of color, girls, LGBTQ+), who might face barriers to learning/enjoying snowsports. Our mission was to break down these barriers, introduce youth to a new passion and pathway to thrive, and help them build confidence in themselves and community with one another.

THE YOUTH

A very diverse group of twenty-two youth ages 12-18 registered this year. Many were affiliated with Pathfinders or Milwaukee area schools’ Gender & Sexuality Alliances. Below are demographic statistics.

32% Female
14% Gender-Expansive (don’t identify exclusively as male or female)
68% BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color)
64% Qualify for free or reduced lunch
50% New to ski/riding
50% returning campers from last year’s camp

THE EXPERIENCE

Here are a few ways we tackled barriers and fostered community and inclusivity.

Eliminated the financial barrier (‘pay what you can’ program fees starting at $15)
Fostered a sense of community by bringing together youth of marginalized identities.
Respect for and acknowledgment of gender/pronouns.
Chaperoning and mentorship from a diverse group of volunteers with youth-serving and/or professional snowsports experience.
Transportation via bus from downtown Milwaukee.
Loanable soft gear - Coats, snowpants, gloves, gaiters, goggles, and socks.
1 hour lessons each program day through The Rock Snowpark Snowschool.
A meal was provided each program day to socialize and refuel.
Freeride time with our volunteer team to socialize and hone skills learned during their lesson time.

Overall Winter Camp for All 2022/2023 met our organization’s goals of creating an engaging and rich experience for a diverse group of youth. We received excellent feedback from our families and volunteers. We also witnessed many youth spark a new pathway to joy through snowsports, gain confidence, and bond with one another. With continued support from our community and program sponsors, we look forward to hosting this program in the future, further impacting the lives of Milwaukee youth and diversifying/enriching the snowsports community!

A HUGE THANK YOU TO EVERYONE INVOLVED THIS YEAR!

"It was GREAT to see the improvement Eli made from one season to the next. Really impressed by the volunteer coaches. He really enjoyed hanging out with friends, being competitive, and feeling more confident in his skills."

"[My son enjoyed] literally everything about winter camp! It's such an encouraging and positive environment. The staff are very supportive and kind."

"My kids loved getting to learn how to do something new! This organization, staff and volunteers were kind and inclusive and made my kids feel supported and challenged to push their limits in a safe and caring way. I want all kids who want to try boarding or skiing to be able to experience this.”

2023/2024 Winter Camp Report