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BOEC's Inspirations
The Official Newsletter of the BOEC
October 12, 2022
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Dear Friend of BOEC,
Just the other day we woke up to the first snow covering the surrounding peaks which brings the reality of the coming winter ever closer. But before we buckle into our boots and step into our bindings, we are celebrating the end of a successful summer, completing winter hiring and staff training, conducting BOEC's Annual Meeting and so much more!
The summer season wrapped up with the annual Cast Iron Cook-off taking place during a typical fall day where we experienced snow, hail, rain, and sun! The Cast Iron Cook-off started 9 years ago as a way for staff to think creatively about the way we make meals with our participants in remote locations. Teams work together to cook amazing food using cast iron cooking methods and the winners are chosen by a panel of impartial judges. This year's winner of the Golden Tongs was our own Wilderness Program Director, Jaime Overmyer, team Fork Yeah!, and the winner of the Golden Whisk in the dessert category was team HEK Yah We Can Bake! from the Admin team of Hallie Jaeger, Ellen McAleese, and Karen Skruch. Congratulations to all of the competitors and to the winners!
This month we want to share three inspiring stories with you, starting with the graduation celebration of our summer intern class. We are always so proud to witness the growth in these amazing young people who come to us eager to learn the work that we do and leave full of confidence and knowledge that they can take with them where ever they choose to go next - which is often returning to BOEC as a valued staff member.
And speaking of BOEC staff - one of our own, Melissa Kuwahara, celebrated 20 years with the BOEC this year and we are excited to share Melissa's story with you. Melissa is BOEC's Office Manager who truly is the glue of this organization and we all say we could not do what we do without her! Thank you for all you do Melissa!
Finally, we are honored to share a story about one of our dedicated funders who support not only the BOEC but so many other deserving organizations serving those living with Spinal Cord Injuries. We are so grateful for the support of the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation which touches nearly every aspect of participant-facing programming.
We also have some updates to share regarding BOEC's important Volunteer Program including introducing Gardner Popp, Volunteer Coordinator who will oversee it all. As an instructor for the past three years, Gardner looks forward to transitioning into a logistical support role to be there every step of the way for our volunteers, the backbone of our organization.
These are just a few examples of the amazing things happening at the BOEC and the people who are making it possible. We are very grateful for those who give so much to the BOEC including our staff, interns, board members, and all of you. Thank you!
Until next month,
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Sonya Norris
Executive Director
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center
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2022 Summer interns bond in the Colorado Desert! |
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Congrats to BOEC's 2022 Summer Intern Graduates |
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At the end of every season, we celebrate the amazing young people who come to BOEC from across the US and other countries, to be a part of the BOEC Internship program. This month we are excited to introduce you to the recent graduates of the Summer 2022 Internship Class!
Thank you for all your hard work and the unforgettable impact you made this summer! (From top left) Daniel Folta, Katherine Stadler, Claire Sullivan, Zachary Yengo, Marin Gala, Emily Vican, (From bottom left) Cassandra Bava, Samantha Ricker, Adriella White, Emma Stern, and Carols Jimenez-Vazques
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Our own Melissa Kuwahara (center) celebrates 20 years with the BOEC along with other amazing members of the team who are celebrating between 3 and 8 year anniversaries. |
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It's the People Who Make BOEC Special: Melissa Kuwahara Celebrates 20 Years With BOEC! |
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When you ask Melissa what it feels like to celebrate 20 years with the BOEC she says with a smile, "I've met my second family here at BOEC and am amazed at the talent and leadership by all of the staff I've met over the years. It has gone by in a flash."
Melissa's story was first published in the BOEC Inspirations Newsletter in the spring of 2021 and we are happy to share it again with a few updates as Melissa celebrates 20 years with the BOEC!
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The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation has funded several BOEC programs, including kayaking and paddle boarding equipment and curriculum development. |
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Donor Spotlight: Craig H. Neilsen Foundation |
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This month's Donor Spotlight features the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation (CHNF) which has been helping BOEC develop, implement, and sustain quality programming so anyone can discover outdoor adventure, learn new skills, and rekindle their spirit in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Inspired by their founder, Craig H. Neilsen, this foundation is committed to changing the world for those living with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). This is why the BOEC and CHNF have worked closely together to advance BOEC's programming, and CHFN is sure making a difference. Read on to learn about their extensive support and impact!
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BOEC is kicking off the 2022-23 Ski Season with a call to volunteer! |
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Introducing new Volunteer Coordinator, Gardner Popp!
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After instructing for three years, Gardner Popp looks forward to serving BOEC in a different role. The logistical side of the organization has always intrigued her and she is excited to be a part of it moving forward. Gardner was motivated to take on this role because she is constantly inspired by the extensive amount of time volunteers give to BOEC. As a previous instructor, she can personally attest to the help and benefit volunteers provide to both participants and instructors for every ski lesson on and off the hill. She hopes to continue the relationships she has already built with a handful of volunteers and build more as she works one-on-one with every volunteer that steps into the Adaptive Ski Program office.
This season, BOEC has implemented a new database! To ensure all returning and new volunteers are in our updated system, everyone will need to fill out the new Volunteer Interest Form. We will be sending out a volunteer newsletter next week announcing training clinics. Please fill out the form to be sure you are receiving updates.
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BOEC is searching for an experienced Marketing Manager to join our team! |
The Marketing Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of marketing and public relations to benefit BOEC, including support of development efforts and special events. In collaboration with the Executive Director and Development Director, this individual will work closely with other members of the team in developing outreach, fundraising, and marketing vehicles to meet the revenue and program goals of the BOEC.
Apply now to join a fun and purposeful culture and shape the future of BOEC!
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Banff Mountain Film Festival February 24th & 25th - Call for Sponsors! |
Sponsoring the Banff Mountain Film Festival, benefitting BOEC, gives your company expansive exposure across Colorado news networks, social media, google ads, and the 1500 people that pack the Riverwalk Center across two evenings of films, in addition to showing your support for one of the leading adaptive organizations in the country.
Reach out to Development Director, Hallie Jaeger, to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
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THANK YOU TO OUR KEY PARTNERS |
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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
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BOEC is able to keep its lesson fees low for its participants so we can remain as inclusive as possible. We rely on generous donors to make up the difference. To make a tax-deductible gift, please click the button above. |
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