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BOEC's Inspirations
The Official Newsletter of the BOEC
February 10, 2021
Friend of BOEC,

As we near the halfway point of this year's ski season it’s hard not to look back to last winter at this time when everything was humming along quite nicely. Since then we have adapted and reinvented, and can proudly say that we are operating the Adaptive Ski & Snowboard Program safely for our participants, staff and volunteers, we had a record-breaking annual appeal with generous donors stepping up to show their support, and we’re looking forward to a slightly more “normal” summer than last year.
 
The ski program is operating at 50% capacity with participants returning from Colorado and across the U.S. BOEC's Internship Program, also reduced in size by half, brought together an incredible group of passionate and talented young people who have met the challenges of this season head on. The Banff Film Festival, while not our usual gathering of friends, is happening virtually (see below) and we hope to present a whole new slate of films this summer when we are able to gather together safely in an outdoor setting. 
 
In this month’s newsletter we share with you the stories that inspire us to work hard every day to do the important work we do. You will meet Clyde Grindell, a BOEC volunteer who has missed his first winter season in 25 years due to COVID-19. We also share a story about a friend and supporter of many years, Dick Carleton, who has served on BOEC’s board, is a local council member and owner of two of Breckenridge’s most beloved eateries, The Hearthstone and Mi Casa. Finally, our Donor Spotlight this month introduces you to a grandfather and grandson who joined together through a family Secret Santa event to learn about and donate to the BOEC. 
 
We would like to extend our gratitude to our participants and their families for coming back this winter and trusting us to keep them safe while enjoying a day of fresh air and fun on the mountain. I am personally grateful to our amazing staff, interns and volunteers for continuing to be so committed to keeping each other safe and healthy so that we CAN offer lessons and programs for our participants and local teens. And we cannot do what we do without those many generous donors who helped to make this year’s Annual Appeal a record-breaker, raising over $170K for BOEC’s adaptive programs. 
 
We thank you all for your continued support and encouragement as we keep on going through these challenging times. 
 
Stay safe and healthy,
Sonya Norris
Sonya Norris
Executive Director
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center
Clyde and Peter Loritz
It's the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Volunteer, Clyde Grindell
BOEC is extremely fortunate to have a robust and thriving Volunteer Program with a pool of volunteers over 400 strong. And, in all honesty, we could not do what we do without the generous support of this amazing group of giving individuals. However, out of a group of 400-plus you're always going to find some outliers ... some that are just a bit different in what they do and how they do it. And one of these unique individuals is Clyde Grindell. This is his story of how and why he chose to get involved with the BOEC.
Dick Carleton
Photo courtesy of the Summit Daily News
Growing Up Together: Dick Carleton, BOEC and the Town of Breckenridge
Breckenridge was a different town and Dick Carleton was a different person when he decided to make this place his home over 40 years ago. The Breckenridge Town Council Member's story is as unique as the town itself, especially as his journey also intertwines with the BOEC, whom he still supports today. Check out his story.
Secret Santa donation
DONOR SPOTLIGHT: James Bartlett & Family
BOEC's Holiday Annual Appeal raised a record $172K this year and it is in large part due to the 387 donors who so generously contributed these much needed funds. Out of the 387 donors comes Jim Bartlett and his grandson Jack. The unique story on how their gift came to the BOEC is this month's donor spotlight. Take a look.
Banff Film Festival BOEC

Banff Film Festival Moves Virtual!

Because of restrictions on group gatherings due to COVID-19, the in-person live screening of the Banff Film Festival this February will not take place. However, be on the lookout for news of a possible live summer event. In the meantime, get your Banff fix virtually from the comfort of your own living room while still supporting BOEC. Just click on the button below to choose a single program or program bundle and enjoy this year's show.
Limber Grove

Thank You to Limber Grove

BOEC is very grateful to local retailer, Limber Grove, who donates a percentage of their sales to BOEC every year.

Shop now to support this local business and the BOEC.
BOEC Ski Office COVID
BOEC Adaptive Ski Office COVID
BOEC Adaptive Ski Office COVID measures
SKI & SNOWBOARD PROGRAM UPDATE
While the coronavirus pandemic forced the early closure of BOEC's Adaptive Ski & Snowboard Program in the spring of 2020, our diligent staff spent the summer updating protocols and making staff and participant safety the top priority for 2020-21's season. The following are few updates to keep you in the know:

  • The program is operating at approximately 50% capacity at both Breckenridge and Keystone Resorts.
  • Longtime groups started in January and include Evergreen Parks and Rec. District, Griffith Center, Summit Middle School and Summit High School.
  • Snow Sports Alliance returned to BOEC thanks to Alpine Bank, The Summit Foundation and Beaver Run Resort.
  • The Volunteer Program, while limited this season, is ramping up with training in January and more opportunities arising daily.
  • The Internship Program, also reduced by half this year, has been excellent with six amazing Breckenridge interns and three Keystone interns.
  • There is still lesson availability for February and March. Please call the ski office at 970-453-5633 to make a reservation.
WHAT'S COMING UP?
Adaptive Chair Yoga
Mindful Making Valentine's Day Card
THANK YOU TO OUR KEY PARTNERS
Breckenridge Ski Resort
Keystone Ski Resort
Town of Breckenridge
EpicPromise
Blue River Sports & Mountain Wave
The mission of the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) is to expand the potential of people with disabilities and special needs through meaningful, educational and inspiring outdoor experiences.
BOEC is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit