CYC Youth Take to the Slopes

Learning a new skill is often an uphill battle, but for CYC-Epstein youth who recently participated in their very first ski lesson, it’s all smooth downhill powder from here! 

A generous grant provided by the Katz Amsterdam Charitable Trust supports CYC’s Winter Sports program. Youth are learning to ski or snowboard over the course of five trips to the Wilmot Mountain resort in Wisconsin. Grant funding outfitted students with winter clothing and sports equipment needed to hit the slopes, and expert resort instructors facilitate the on-snow lessons.  

Each consecutive trip will help students hone their winter sports abilities and improve social-emotional skills needed to persevere with a challenging activity. The program also highlights different careers around winter sports that students may have never considered before.  

Participation in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding can make Chicago’s bitterly cold months more enjoyable. Prior to joining the program, none of the CYC participants had ever gone skiing or snowboarding before. This partnership has made winter sports more accessible for our youth.  

Kevin (age 17) was excited about the opportunity to travel outside of the city – it was his first time in Wisconsin! Kevin thought his first day of skiing was challenging, but fun. He hopes that as the program progresses, it will help him to become more outgoing.

While Janelle (age 10) was originally hesitant to sign up for the program, her mother ultimately convinced her. “My mom wanted me to try something new,” she shared. After her first day of ski lessons, Janelle gained confidence. She quickly picked up on how to turn and stop. She revealed that for her next ski lesson she’ll be even more prepared for success! 

Thank you to the Katz Amsterdam Charitable Trust and Vail Resorts for empowdering our kids to learn a new sport!