Grassroots Education Projects Bringing Communities Closer Through Winter Sports

Introduction

In Sun Valley, Idaho, the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) has launched an inspiring initiative called the Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project. This project aims to promote ethnic and cultural diversity, inclusion, and opportunities for historically marginalized children to participate in SVSEF’s competitive sports programming. By raising $100,000, the project aims to provide support to these children who show a desire to excel as winter sport athletes.

Bringing Diversity to Winter Sports

The Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project, also known as the G2G Project, is designed to integrate with existing learn-to-ski-and-ride programs at Rotarun Ski Area and Quigley Nordic Trails. This project will provide additional support and education for athletes and their families as they progress in SVSEF’s snowsport disciplines, including alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding, and other programs.

The G2G Project aims to address the cultural and financial barriers that may hinder participation in winter sports. By providing scholarships, ski passes, equipment leases, and tuition support, the project ensures that these young athletes can fully engage in the opportunities before them. The ultimate goal is to foster well-rounded child development and create a more inclusive and diverse community.

Inspiring Success Stories

The G2G Project has already seen some remarkable success stories. One such story is that of Fernanda Hurtado, who started skiing through the Rota-Rippers after-school program when she was just six years old. Inspired by the 2018 Winter Olympics, Fernanda has since progressed through various SVSEF programs and is now a member of the Alpine U12 Travel Team. She loves the speed and the thrill of ski racing, and she credits SVSEF for providing her with a supportive community and dedicated coaches.

Another inspiring athlete is Octavio “Tavi” Hurtado, Fernanda’s younger brother, who found his passion for skiing through the Rota-Rippers program as well. Tavi now excels in moguls and is a member of SVSEF’s Freestyle Progression Team. His love for the jumps and the support from his coaches and community have made his skiing journey a truly enjoyable one.

The G2G Project has been instrumental in supporting athletes like Fernanda and Tavi, providing them with the resources they need to pursue their dreams. Their parents, Fernando and Nallely Hurtado, express their gratitude for the opportunities SVSEF has provided for their children and how skiing has become more than just a sport—it’s their passion.

The Next Generation of Athletes

The G2G Project continues to inspire and support a new generation of talented and determined young athletes. Eva Gonzalez, an eight-year-old cross country skier, has become a passionate advocate for the project. She is eager to join SVSEF’s LASAR program and dreams of becoming the best skier she can be.

Linda Hernandez, a ten-year-old cross country skier and gymnast, also finds joy in being part of SVSEF’s programs. She appreciates the good exercise and fun that skiing brings to her life.

Ian Lozada, a fifth-grade student with a passion for math and aspirations of becoming an architect, is a member of SVSEF’s Alpine U12 Home Team. He loves the exhilaration of skiing downhill and being surrounded by the beautiful mountain environment.

Justin Armas, a fourth-grade student who enjoys science and dreams of becoming a hip hop singer, is a member of both SVSEF’s Cross Country Devo North Team and Alpine Baldy Devo Team. Justin’s parents, originally from Peru, have been living in the Wood River Valley for two decades, and they value the importance of sports in their children’s lives.

Promoting Inclusion and Celebrating Achievements

The G2G Project recognizes the need for increased representation of people of color in winter sports. By taking representation as an initial step, the project aims to shift the narrative and work closely with parents and community members to ensure equity and relevance. The project also aims to share the impacts of its initiatives with the broader community through storytelling and foster new partnerships.

The vision and goals of the G2G Project will continue to grow and expand with the support of the community. The funds raised for the project will be used to support dedicated athletes identified through the grassroots programs. The project will make long-term commitments to these athletes based on annual reviews, and success will be measured by continued athlete participation, program growth, and athletic achievements.

Supporting Grassroots Education Projects

To learn more about the Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project and to support its initiatives, please contact Scott McGrew at scott@svsef.org or 208-726-4129. The G2G Project aims to bring communities closer together through winter sports, promoting diversity, inclusion, and opportunities for all children to thrive as winter sport athletes. Join us in supporting this important cause and making a difference in the lives of these young athletes.

Keywords: Grassroots education projects, SVSEF, winter sports, diversity, inclusion, athletes, community, support, scholarships, ski passes, equipment leases, tuition support, well-rounded child development, success stories, representation, equity, partnerships, support initiatives.