Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports Magazine

VERMONT ADAPTIVEMAGAZINE 2018
SERVING ALL ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES SINCE 1987

1
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Maybe I’m too close to the action, but I believe there is a tremendous amount of
momentum around adaptive sports today. Maybe you’re one of the lucky ones,
with programs right in your own community, town recreation department or
school system. Yet while there are many resources available, Vermont Adaptive
remains unique.
We recognize that Vermont alone doesn’t have a population density to have
Adaptive Professionals working for city recreation departments like larger metro
areas have. As an independent, agile organization, in addition to our own
programming that we provide year-round throughout the state, we are ready to
help where needed—and our role has always been just that: if there is a need, we
do our best to fill it or provide the best resources or referrals that we can. There
also are great resources through Disabled Sports USA www.dsusa.org and the
US Paralympics www.usparalympics.org that will list any participating chapter
programs closest to you.
Vermont Adaptive has been offering programs for so long and has played a lead
role, along with Special Olympics Vermont, in developing new fun, healthy
adventures to both Vermonters and our out of state visitors. Adaptive equipment
is still specialized and expensive, but the gear now is so fantastic, well-built and
durable. With 30 years of expertise in the adaptive sports evolution, we are excited
to lead the way even further into the future with our highly trained volunteer
instructors and amazing, skilled staff.
Whether recreating through our programs, or relying on our support in existing
city and community areas, there has never been a better time to enjoy the
outdoors in the Green Mountains. Come join us! Find out what we have planned
as we continue to help lead the way for recreation for all ages and abilities.
Vermont: 49%
Massachusetts: 15%
New York: 12%
Connecticut: 7%
Other: 7%
New Jersey: 6%
Pennsylvania: 2%
New Hampshire: 2%
29 other states
countries
WHO WE SERVE:
Adults Youth
SERVED
Physical: 41%
Developmental/Cognitive: 36%
Emotional Behavioral: 13%
DD/Cog Physical: 10%
DISABILITIES:
Autism: 21%
Blind/Visually Impaired: 12%
Emotional/Behavioral: 10%
Cerebral Palsy: 9%
Developmental: 9%
Down Syndrome: 7%
Other: 7%
Spinal Cord Injury: 4%
Muscle Weakness: 3%
Paraplegia: 3%
Brain Injury: 3%
Spina Bifida: 2%
Stroke: 2%
Amputation: 2%
Deaf or Hard of Hearing: 1%
Multiple Sclerosis: 1%
Quadriplegia: 1%
DISABILITIES SERVED:
Erin Fernandez
Executive Director : director@vermontadaptive.org
802.786.4991 ext. 21
Volunteer Hours Annually: 24,000
Year-Round Outings: 3,000
People served Since 1987:
Approximately 10,000 different
people of all ages and abilities
VERMONT ADAPTIVE SKI AND SPORTS is a nationally
recognized non-profit organization that empowers people of all abilities
through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability
to pay. In addition to sports, year-round programming options integrate
environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies
for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional/
behavioral disabilities.
STATEMENT OF BELIEF We believe sports and recreation provide a
physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting
self-confidence and independence in an individual. To that end, we extend an
enormous thanks to our affiliates, sponsors and partners who believe in our
mission and vision, and who afford us the opportunity to bring sports and
recreation to our clients’ lives.
MISSION Vermont Adaptive Ski Sports
is committed to empowering individuals with
disabilities. We promote independence and
further equality through access and instruction
to sports and recreational activities.
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In 2012 at just 21, Martha Stewart (yes, the Martha Stewart)
awarded Emily Cioffi with top honors in the “Quest for
the Best” national birthday cake contest on NBC’s Today
Show. “Someone I made a cake for submitted my cake,”
said Cioffi. “They narrowed it down to six of us and my
biggest fear was that the audience would think I was
picked because of my disability so I stayed behind the
table when we were live. I didn’t want the judgement.”
When Martha Stewart tasted a slice of Emily’s cake, she
pronounced her the winner.
Today, Emily’s passion for skiing has somewhat replaced
her love for baking. “I’m skiing all the time and skiing
kind of kyboshed the whole cake thing,” she said. She
has always had a love for racing and teaching skiing and
could never get enough time on the mountain. After an
injury (she was born with defective hips, has had multiple
surgeries and now uses crutches to assist her in walking)
she didn’t think she’d come back to skiing because of
her hips. But after a bit of research she learned about
Vermont Adaptive and the possibility of using a mono
ski to ski. “I showed up for my first day of skiing and
was the most excited person on the earth,” she said.
“Norm [Staunton] was there and said, ‘You are an athlete.
You have a core. You have everything you need. We’re
just going to go.’ I knew what a fall line was and how a
ski functions. So, we fitted me into the bucket and mono
ski and took off. He pushed me up the hill and told me
to go straight down, and I actually made two turns and
from day one I was really strong.”
After a crash where she dislocated her elbow, Emily
struggled a bit for a few years using the mono ski. But
finally healed, she came back with a vengeance (although
she had more deficits in her legs). Norm said, “You’re
losing things but skiing’s not going to change and you’re
always going to have skiing.” With more time on the
hill, her ability improved to the point where she was an
independent mono skier—someone who could get down
the hill and on the lift on her own. She attended a race
camp and was named a recipient of a scholarship from
the High Fives Foundation to attend the Paralympic
Nationals at Loon Mountain. “I met people and networked,
learned by watching others and analyzed,” she said. “It
kindled my fire not only to make the Paralympic Team
but also to be a bad ass mono skier, not just to stick to
open slopes but to dive into the woods and over bumps
that are bigger than me.”
Emily continues to pursue her passion for skiing while
working as a phlebotomist and IV specialist. She interned
with Vermont Adaptive at Sugarbush Resort and became
a volunteer instructor as well. She also purchased her
own mono ski. “My main goal is I want to race and be
on the Paralympic Team but my end goal is to ski the
bumps and trees and all the crazy stuff people ski. It
means more to me to be an extremely technical skier
that can go anywhere.”
And she still bakes a mean cake.
VERMONT ADAPTIVE ATHLETE Emily Cioffi
PRIZED CAKE MAKER/PHLEBOTOMIST/SKIER

44
Five months into my second deployment to Kunar
Provence, Afghanistan (Aug. 2011) my unit was in a
direct engagement with Taliban fighters. During this
fight, I was in close contact to a blast that caused a
cervical spine injury and a TBI (traumatic brain injury).
I had the opportunity to be sent home but decided to
stay in the country with my guys to do my part to bring
them back home. Once I returned
home, I attempted to recover and
heal to be able to deploy again the
following year. My injuries were
worse than I had thought and were
irreversible. During this recovery
process, I had to accept the fact that
I could no longer be a Soldier. I fell
into a rut and had lost the sense of
purpose and pride that I once had
for myself.
In February 2015 I was medically retired from the US
Army and sent on my way, without really knowing what
the future held for me. Since then I have been in a state
of struggle trying to find my new path and purpose
in life. The following Fall I was linked up with a fellow
paratrooper turned Veteran’s Administration employee.
He introduced me to the veterans’ program with Vermont
Adaptive. That first season we did not
have the best winter, but I was able to
get up on the slopes about 10 times.
Then that summer I went on a few
hikes, kayaked, bowled, and grew a
bond to this wonderful program.
This past winter I attended the Veteran
retreat in Killington, and during that
time, I felt like I had to be a part of this
program and give back to it what I had
VETERANS FINDING A NEW path purpose
BY MED. RET. SSG MISHA C. PEMBLE-BELKIN
THIS PAST WINTER I ATTENDED THE VETERAN
RETREAT IN KILLINGTON, AND DURING THAT
TIME, I FELT LIKE I HAD TO BE A PART OF THIS
PROGRAM AND GIVE BACK TO IT WHAT I HAD
THOUGHT IT HAD GIVEN TO ME, NOT KNOW-
ING THAT I WOULD BENEFIT IMMENSELY ON
A SPIRITUAL, PHYSICAL EMOTIONAL LEVEL.
Misha climbing with Vermont Adaptive
thought it had given to me, not knowing that I would
benefit immensely on a spiritual, physical and emotional
level. Kelly Walsh, the program coordinator for Bolton
Valley, allowed me to become an intern with Vermont
Adaptive this past year. By her doing this and seeing
something in me that I had thought I had lost was the
start to the best winter of my life.
Each athlete I worked with has had a special spot in my
heart, and I have a special memory of how they have
helped improve my life for the better. These athletes
that I have worked with are strong and brave, and the
joy that I can see that they get as they improve their
abilities has helped me so, so much.
There is one Vietnam Veteran who I’ve looked at this
season as a mentor. We have had some deep talks, and
he and his wife have helped me look toward the future.
I am so grateful for the opportunity that Vermont
Adaptive, the staff, interns, volunteers, and athletes
have allowed me to be a part of. Last winter forever
changed who I am for the better, as
a person and father.
To learn more about Misha’s journey,
watch the documentary “Korengal”
on Netflix.
4 Follow Us! MT[V^

6 www.vermontadaptive.com
VERMONT ADAPTIVE offers ONE OF THE FIRST
adaptive MOUNTAIN BIKE PROGRAMS IN NEW ENGLAND
Vermont Adaptive’s Mountain Bike Program, one of the first adaptive mountain bike programs
in New England, provides adaptive mountain bikes, two-wheeled mountain bikes and road bikes
to athletes of all abilities during open enrollment dates and special outings.
“Vermont Adaptive has really changed the game on the
East Coast,” said athlete Greg Durso. “Their new adaptive
mountain bike series adds another great adventure to
their already stellar set of programs. As an avid adventurist,
after my injury, mountain biking was one of those things
I really thought I might never do again. Especially since
the bikes are few and far between to find and have access
to. Now that this is available on the East Coast I couldn’t
wait to try, it totally exceeded my expectations.”
Adaptive mountain bikes are available for participants
on a first-come, reservations-based system. These highly
adjustable bikes are ideal for individuals with Spinal Cord
Injuries, Amputations or Limb Differences, or Balance
and Motor Skill Disabilities.
In 2017, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs awarded
Vermont Adaptive grant monies to help purchase 10,
two-wheeled mountain bikes and 10 bicycles for use on
the recreation paths. These bikes allow participants who
don’t need to use an adaptive bike to get outside, exercise
and socialize with others, to enjoy Vermont alongside
their peers with physical disabilities.
The adaptive mountain bike program offers three different
types of mountain bikes from ReActive Adaptations;
The Nuke, The Bomber and The Stinger. These custom
hand cycles are crafted in the mountains of Crested Butte,
Colo. Made specifically for rocky terrain, these unique
hand cycles are designed for adaptive riders to cruise
down the trails smoothly.
“This opened up a whole new door of adrenaline and
sport for me to pursue,” said Durso. “Olivia and her crew
were able to push my boundaries and take me to some
great off road trails and were always there if I needed
help. This made a huge impact on my summer and my
life, I couldn’t stop smiling. There is nothing better than
sharing these new moments and experiences with great
people and getting yourself doing things you might never
thought you could. I can’t wait to come up more to use
the bikes and more importantly have fun with
Vermont Adaptive.”
For more details on the program, contact Olivia Joseph
at north@vermontadaptive.org or find open enrollment
dates online for Summer 2018 at
www.vermontadaptive.org.
“ I JUST WANTED TO THANK YOU FOR TAKING ME ON THE WONDERFULLY
PHOTO CREDIT: CHANDLER BURGESS
EXCITING MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE YESTERDAY. YOU’VE REALLY MADE IT
POSSIBLE TO ENJOY MY MOUNTAIN BIKE IN A WAY I HAVEN’T BEENABLE TO FOR A VERY LONG TIME.
” – Julian Harvey

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE!
www.vermontsportsmedicinecenter.com
Killington
3902 Killington Road
802.422.1230
Rutland
5 Albert Cree Road
802.775.1300
Castleton
85 Route 4A West
802.265.9940
Brandon
381 New Road, Suite A
802.247.6270
Putting Education, Experience and Research into Practice!
Our services include: One-on-One, Manual Therapy • Orthopaedic Rehabilitation • Sports Medicine
Occupational Health • Hand Therapy • Aquatic Therapy • Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)
At Vermont Sports Medicine Center we pride ourselves on having a team of physical,
occupational and certified hand therapists with the clinical experience, training and
continuing education you need to look for when choosing where to go for therapy!
Our professional staff has extensive knowledge and experience in treating patients with a wide variety
of sports and occupational injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation needs and chronic conditions.
Check out our NEW location @ Club Fitness-Diamond Run Mall! Open Turf space for Functional Training and Sport Specific Rehabilitation!
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Vermont Adaptive
877-9BOLTON • boltonvalley.com
“The climbing wall had just as much effect on him as
the activities from the whole week of C.O.R.E. Connec-
tions,” said Scarlett Duncan, the mother of a C.O.R.E.
participant. “He now wants to go up every wall at every
playground. He got it in just that
week. He couldn’t do mental and
physical at the same time but in a
safe, supportive environment he
could.”
Regular scheduled C.O.R.E retreats
are held at all Vermont Adaptive
locations with travel to specific
recreational areas.
OPEN ENROLLMENT SESSION
DATES FOR 2018:
Feb. 21-23 • June 25-29 • Aug. 13-17
Contact south@vermontadaptive.org for more
information or to register.
C.O.R.E.
C.O.R.E. CONNECTIONS IS A MULTI-DAY
WELLNESS RETREAT THAT EMPHASIZES
whole body health AND IS OPEN TO
ALL AGES AND ABILITIES.
This program includes an initial
individualized lifestyle analysis
and moves on to personalized goal
setting, nutrition, fitness, and mind-
fulness. There is emphasis on
exploration and engagement that
includes farm to table field trips,
cooking, fitness modalities, creative
arts and music, traditional Vermont Adaptive adventures
such as paddling, cycling, or skiing, snowboarding
and snowshoeing, and always integrates daily adaptive
yoga and holistic approaches such as guided breathing
exercises. These retreats are customizable for any time
of the year, at a variety of locations, for large or
small groups.
The program fosters the development of skills
transferable to several areas of a participant’s life, the
development of leadership skills, collaboration as a
member of a team, and personal growth all while learning
about environmental stewardship and safety preparedness
and awareness in the outdoors. Our goal is to provide
interactive activities that support Leave No Trace ethics,
water conservation, plant and animal identification,
and techniques for environmental protection. We even
cover relevant topics such as planning and preparedness
for trips and nutrition.
Adapted front country experiences are
single or multi day (less intimidating)
experiences that are easy to get to—
accessible lakes, streams and trails.
They are great for a commuting
classroom, too.
Forthoseseekingmorechallengingadven-
tures we offer multi day back country explorations —
less civilized, more wilderness and more challenging
(and probably no cell service).
For more information, email south@vermontadaptive.org.
ECOABLE ADVENTURES
SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS
IS good FOR OUR bodies.
LEARNING ABOUT THE OUTDOORS
IS good FOR THE ENVIRONMENT.
Vermont Adaptive offers interactive programs that
keep you moving and raise one’s understanding
and awareness about the outdoors. EcoAble Adven-
ture experiences are offered to all
ages, abilities and backgrounds—for
individuals, groups, school groups,
families and organizations.
We bring the classroom outside for
single or multi day programs- providing
experientialopportunitiestolearnaboutand
connect with the environment while developing unique
opportunities to succeed. Experiences are each custom
designed with goals, season, ages, location, and abilities
in mind.

VERMONT ADAPTIVE JUNIOR VOLUNTEERS:
MICHAEL RYAN TAYLOR –
FIND YOUR passion. SHARE YOUR PASSION.
Michael Taylor, 17, and his brother, Ryan, 15, have a pretty cool mom and one of her biggest
mantras to her sons has stuck. Life is all about finding your passion and sharing your passion,
she would say. That phrase and variations of it were ingrained in the minds of these two
Holliston, Mass. students from a young age.
“In this case, skiing is our passion,” said Ryan, “and sharing
that same enjoyment that we get out of it.”
Michael and Ryan began volunteering with Vermont
Adaptive at a young age (now, junior volunteers must
be at least 16-years-old to volunteer) when their dad,
David, was volunteering,
watching and learning. “I saw
the program work in the old
space here at Pico and also my
fifth-grade teacher had a
daughter who was a Paralympian,”
Michael said. “I was a shadow,
but I still got the same feeling
of helping people. Now I get
to do more. I’m a strong skier
and a stronger person. Tom
often pairs us up with kids our
age, not so much for instruction but more for just skiing
around, laughing and talking on the chair lift.”
For Ryan, he decided to volunteer, well, because his older
brother was doing it and it looked fun. “Now I feel I’m
helping more and that’s really fun, too,” Ryan said.
Both boys talk about their volunteering with Vermont
Adaptive in school and to their friends, too, explaining
how they help different people, which helps raise aware-
ness that everything’s obtainable and nothing’s impossible.
“Once the kids are out there sometimes they start to lose
focus,” Michael said. “After two runs on Bonanza they
get tired and fall on the snow so we just make snow
angels or come in to the quiet room to take a break and
regain focus. The most challenging part is coming in for
lunch after a great morning and no one wants to stop…
but we all get hungry after a while!”
Being on a bi-ski lesson is Ryan’s
favorite type of lesson. “It’s so
cool that anyone can really do
anything and being paralyzed
won’t stop them.” But both boys
really enjoy any type of lesson
they’re given. “We’re wherever
Tom needs us—once you’re
on the mountain it all
blends together.”
Vermont Adaptive relies on more
than 400 highly trained volunteer instructors for lessons
and outings—volunteers like Michael and Ryan—who are
simply looking to share their passion for sports with others.
“Vermont Adaptive is an organization that helps people
with disabilities learn to ski and enjoy the mountain,
having a great time while staying safe and having fun,”
said Michael. “Nothing is impossible here.”
Volunteer orientation begins in November. For a
complete listing of dates, information and a volunteer
application, visit www.vermontadaptive.org.

VERMONTORTHOPAEDICCLINIC
A D E P A R T M E N T O F R U T L A N D R E G I O N A L M E D I C A L C E N T E R
RUTLAND, VT • 802.775.2937 • 800.625.2937 • vermontorthoclinic.org
O R T H O P A E D I C C A R E T H A T U N D E R S T A N D S Y O U R D E S I R E F O R A H E A L T H Y , A C T I V E L I F E
Our physicians regularly treat a variety of injuries
and conditions that help get you back on your feet.
Choose the proven health professionals and Board-
Certified surgeons at Vermont Orthopaedic Clinic,
recognized nationally for excellence in patient safety
and satisfaction. Our goal is to get you back to the
life you live and love, as safely and quickly as possible.
Left to right: Ann Stein, MD, Matt Zmurko, MD,
Deb Henley, MD, Eric Marsh, MD, Andrew Lighthart, MD,
Melbourne Boynton, MD and Matt Gammons, MD
Go for it.(We’ve got the landing.)
When Mike Murphy returned to his
home mountain of Sugarbush Resort
in 2008 to celebrate the resort’s 50th
anniversary, a simple four-day trip
turned into a four-week stay—and
then some. During that period when
he was “visiting,” he discovered the
resort’s Cabin Cat Adventures—one
of the first cat adventures to be offered in the Northeast.
And learned of a beautiful way to find first tracks at the
crack of dawn.
“When I was home, I spoke up and said I would drive
that cat, knowing that it would be an excuse to come
back and ski more,” said Mike, who grew up at Sugarbush
while his dad maintained the role of general manager.
“Now I’ve had a lot of skiing in the past seven years or so.”
Mike’s journey back to Sugarbush was simply the
next step of how he would leave his mark on the
resort community. His deep roots with Sugarbush
intertwine with Vermont Adaptive’s history and the
organization’s migration to the Valley—long before he
became the man in the cat.
As an amputee due to a motorcycle accident in 1977,
Mike went on to not only teach himself to ski (there
weren’t any programs for people with disabilities back
then) but to also ski for the US Team at the 1982 World
Championships, earning a silver medal in Slalom in
Switzerland. “When I returned back East, I ended up
at Ascutney Mountain to hang out with the folks down
there, met some people and became more involved in
Vermont Adaptive. We talked about getting something
started at Sugarbush.” (Vermont Adaptive originated at
Ascutney Mountain and moved to its current state
headquarters at Pico Mountain in 1999.)
Because of his connections at Sugarbush, over the course
of the next few years, he approached members of the
management team to see if they would be interested in
bringing an adaptive ski program to the mountain. He
went on to find volunteers, help get the word out and
be a liaison between Vermont Adaptive and the resort.
Eventually a program coordinator was hired and the
program was sound enough that Mike stepped back.
And Vermont Adaptive officially had its second winter
home in Vermont in 1991.
“One of my good friends was an assistant general
manager and he said to me one day, ‘Mike, you did your
job. You introduced everybody to each other.’ I thought
about that and stepped back and let go,” he said.
Today, the man in the cat drives guests to the top of
the mountain for sunset groomer rides, or to dinner to
Allyn’s Lodge for a chef prepared dinner and an option
to ski down after dinner in the dark. But the bulk of his
time is spent taking up to 12 passengers in the Lincoln
Limo to experience pristine, deep powder or untouched
corduroy for first tracks before the mountain opens to
the public in the morning. “We do laps on North Lynx
before the lift opens after grooming or on a powder day,”
he said. Most groups get three or more runs, depending
on the group and the speed and tour taken.
“I’m thrilled to death and tickled pink that Vermont
Adaptive has been as successful as it has with the
program,” Mike said. “I get a good feeling when I see
someone out there with the volunteers.”
For more information about the Cabin Cat Adventures, visit
sugarbush.com. For details and information about Vermont
Adaptive’s Home Sweet Home Permanent Home Campaign at
Mount Ellen at Sugarbush, contact Maggie Burke, managing
director, at managingdirector@vermontadaptive.org.
MIKE MURPHY – THE MAN IN THE CAT
PHOTOCREDITS(2):JASONMORRISFORSUGARBUSHRESORT

14
MAKE THE WORK OF
IN PERPETUITY…
We are thrilled to announce a partnership with the
Vermont Community Foundation to create and manage
a permanent endowment for the benefit of Vermont
Adaptive Ski and Sports. Now donors can make a gift
that will be invested and overseen by the Vermont
Community Foundation for the exclusive benefit
of Vermont Adaptive and the people we serve.
There are many ways to support this effort. Some, like
Mike and Maggie (see adjoining story), have made a gift
in honor of someone—a legacy gift. Others have made
a gift in their lifetime to help begin the fund. Other
supporters are making provisions in their wills or trust
documents to leave a percentage of their estate, or a
fixed dollar amount, or “the residual” after all other
bequests have been made, to the Vermont Community
Foundation for the benefit of the Vermont Adaptive
Endowment Fund.
Others are exploring ways of making a gift that will
pay them income for their lifetimes, with the money
eventually passing to the Vermont
Adaptive Endowment Fund. These
kinds of life-income gifts – called
Charitable Gift Annuities and
Charitable Remainder Trusts – can
provide significant tax benefits, as
well as lifetime income. They are
particularly attractive when donors
use assets that have grown in value,
such as stock or real estate, to fund
the gift.
As we embark on the $4,000,000
second and third phases of our Home
Sweet Home Capital Campaign that includes permanent
homes at Sugarbush Resort and on the Burlington Waterfront,
the Board of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports has
included in that total an ambitious $2,000,000 goal for
the eventual size of the endowment. An endowment
at that level will help ensure that the work of Vermont
Adaptive will continue for decades to come. Building an
endowment of that size won’t happen overnight, but we
are confident that once our supporters begin to name
the Vermont Adaptive Endowment Fund in their estate
plans and take advantage of life-income opportunities,
the fund will grow enormously.
Two of our greatest limitations to providing adaptive
sports and recreation to EVERY body are our lack of
physical spaces and having a healthy endowment to
sustain us in the future. With the endowment in place,
we can be assured that Vermont Adaptive will continue
to share the passion of sports and recreation with all
Vermonters on into the future.
For more information about being a lead donor to the
Home Sweet Home Campaign and the Endowment,
please contact Erin Fernandez, Executive Director, at
802.786.4991 ext. 21 or director@vermontadaptive.org.
IN SOMEONE’S
memory…
A year ago, Mike H. Burke (longtime
Vermont Adaptive volunteer) and his
daughter, Maggie (Vermont Adaptive’s
managing director), lost Ellen, a wife
and mother dedicated to caring for
others—whether it was her children,
extended family, as a guardian-ad-litem,
or simply helping a friend in need
with a project. Through her encourage-
ment, Mike and Maggie became a part of Vermont
Adaptive in many ways—as volunteer, intern, staff
member, friend, advocate, and now donors.
VERMONT ADAPTIVE possible
“I thought she would live forever,” said Mike, about his
wife who lost her battle with Dementia at an early age
of 68. “Now making a difference in her memory is pretty
exciting, knowing that there is a chance to do what little
we’re able to do—the fact that she can continue to do
public service is a nice thing. Everyone who has ever been
on a lesson with one of our participants or helped out
at a fundraiser understands what it means to make a
difference in someone’s life. If they’re like me, they’ve
never thought about how to make sure the important
work continues.”
Maggie said that when her mom was diagnosed with
Dementia, as a family they had to do a lot of planning
like navigating the health care system, the different
options of different doctors and figuring out plans for
living accommodations from living with family to
eventually moving to an assisted living facility.
“This also included meeting with professionals to come
up with a financial plan as we moved forward and con-
sidered end of life wishes,” Maggie said. “While Mom’s
passing wasn’t expected, we had the peace of mind that
we had a plan in place and understood what her wishes
were.”
During a sad time, talking about how their family could
make a difference in memory of Ellen helped. In Ellen’s
obituary, the family asked people to donate to the library
where Ellen volunteered in lieu of flowers. For anyone
who reached out to the family asking what they could
do to help, Maggie and Mike asked that they
simply do a random act of kindness in the
community in memory of Ellen. And lastly,
they decided to make an initial gift to Vermont
Adaptive’s Home Sweet Home Capital
Campaign (which includes a new home at
Sugarbush Resort) in memory of her.
“The gift we made, while significant to us, we know is
just a ‘drop in the bucket’ of the overall project,” Maggie
said. “We made the gift without being concerned of a
name on a wall or plaque, but it is helpful that the whole
mountain is named Mt. Ellen. That is naming rights
enough!”
As they continue to move forward and reflect on the one
year anniversary of Ellen’s passing, Mike and Maggie are
excited to work toward a dream that will ultimately make
a difference in the lives of others in Ellen’s memory.
“After what Ellen went through in her last years, it is very
important to us that she be remembered for who she was
for 95 percent of her life,” Mike said. “There is no better
way to do that than to help build a facility that will be
there for one hundred years. We know from Pico* that
participants and families can better relax and prepare for
their day in the new building. Having seen how lessons
get started at all three resort areas, I am convinced that
participants at Pico have a great experience. Ellen would
be wildly enthusiastic about replacing the Mt. Ellen
space with a Pico-type facility. But the very last thing
she would want would be to have her name engraved
somewhere. She would insist that any money given was
to be used to make the participant experience even
more awesome.”
To make a legacy gift, contact Erin Fernandez,
Executive Director, at 802.786.4991 ext. 21,
director@vermontadaptive.org
or Maggie Burke, Managing Director, 802.786.4991 ext. 30,
managingdirector@vermontadaptive.org.
*The first phases of the Home Sweet Home
Capital Campaign included the building of a new
state-of-the-art adaptive facility at Pico
Mountain, which opened in 2014.

17
After having now spent a year interning with Vermont
Adaptive, I am so thankful for the opportunities it
has given me to develop my interpersonal skills, my
instructional skills, for the network it has given me, and
for appreciation it has given me for the joy recreational
sports can bring every individual. Vermont Adaptive truly
is a client-centered organization that cares most about
empowering its athletes – something that I am
reminded of every day I am with this group.
Every lesson I learned something new. Each athlete had
different goals, different challenges. I learned from every-
body I interacted with: the athletes, the volunteers, the
parents, my co-interns, and my boss. Every individual
had a different way of teaching, and no one method was
better than the other. I had the chance to work with
(but in reality, learn from) people of all ages and abilities –
kids, adults, Veterans, etc.; my experience was only
enriched by having the opportunity to interact with such
a diverse array of athletes.
While I learned instructional skills, I also acquired valuable
insights into running a successful program. I was fortunate
to have a boss who is more passionate about her work
than dogs are about peanut butter. I had the best co-
interns – each who had different instructional styles and
different backgrounds. I worked with volunteers whom
had years more experience than I did, and came from
diverse backgrounds – from physical therapists to teachers
to sales representatives. From everybody, I gained a bit
of insight into why this program is so successful, and how
to make it continue to be so successful. Every day, I was
lucky to go to work. One of my favorite sights was to
come in from a morning lesson on a weekend, and see
the “office” flooded with athletes and volunteers. I was
constantly reminded of how lucky I was to be a part of
a program so full of energy and passion.
This past year has honestly been one of the best years in
terms of self-discovery for me. Thanks to this internship,
I am now hoping to pursue a Master’s Degree in
Therapeutic Recreation
post-graduation and am currently
pursuing a position within the adaptive
sports world. I am overwhelmed at the thought of my
internship coming to a close, but am excited to transition
into a volunteer role with Vermont Adaptive and to
expand on my therapeutic recreation skills. The community
built by Vermont Adaptive is absolutely amazing and
one I hope continues to empower and inspire people as
it does now.
Reflections FROM A
VERMONT ADAPTIVE INTERN
BY CAYLA HAMMAKER
UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT, CLASS OF 2017
INTERNSHIPS
Our Intern Program is designed to provide opportunities
to students interested in Adaptive Sports, Therapeutic
Recreation, Adventure Recreation and Adventure Educa-
tion to gain knowledge and professional experience in
these growing fields. We also offer internships to those
who are pursuing philanthropic careers in development,
marketing and administration. Internships can either
be seasonal or year-round, depending on the focus and
discipline of the internship.
INTERN QUALIFICATIONS
All interns must be in high school or college, have current
first aid and CPR certification and the ability to commit
to an entire season. Vermont Adaptive is looking for
intern staff who are self-motivated, take initiative and have
some experience working with people with disabilities
and adventure recreation. It is helpful to have technical
outdoor skills and the ability to work well with people.
All interns have a strong sense of hard work, flexibility,
a love for the outdoors, an open mind and a love for
working with people.
TO APPLY
Visit vermontadaptive.org, review the requirements
and apply through the specific Internship page.

18
WHAT’S YOUR DREAM FOR ADAPTIVE SPORTS?
I want adaptive sports to continue to be mainstreamed
into the professional arena of sports. For instance, the
Olympics highlighting disabled athletes is a step in the
right direction and watching more adaptive athletes
compete in typical pro and semi pro sporting events. It’s
a start but we need more.
HOW DO YOU STRETCH YOUR LIMITS?
I try to remember the participants and families that we
work with take a leap of faith with us and so I need to
bring that level of effort and commitment as well. It’s all
about motivation—how can I motivate them, which in
turn motivates me.
WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF? Boredom.
SKI OR SNOWBOARD? Ski.
BIKE OR PADDLE? Paddle.
KELLY WALSH
PROGRAM
COORDINATOR
WHY ARE YOU HERE?
I cherish outdoor recreation,
and what it does for my physical
and mental health is super helpful. I
want everyone to be able to experience that and feel
the benefit of it regardless of their abilities.
HOW DID YOU GET HERE? HOW DID YOU GET
INTO THIS? It all started in the 6th grade. A family
friend had a therapeutic horseback riding farm, and I
volunteered. I helped with the horses and immediately
fell in love with working with people with disabilities.
I volunteered all through high school and college. In
college, I completed an internship with Vermont
Adaptive and realized this is what I
wanted to do with my life because
I loved it so much. My goal was
to get more experience and
figure out a path to get into
adaptive sports. I majored
in sports management
at Rutgers University,
continued to volunteer
at various places including an adaptive sports organiza-
tion in Israel. I graduated and became a special educator.
When the Vermont Adaptive position opened up at
Bolton Valley, I knew it would be a perfect fit.
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH ON THE JOB?
People say I’m constantly laughing. I guess everything
makes me laugh—the successes and the failures. There’s
always something to giggle about. The interns and
athletes and their commentary make me laugh.
WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST WISH FOR THE
ORGANIZATION? To have a permanent home in
Burlington. I see this program growing so much every
day. If we had our own autonomous space I can see how
much more we could grow and serve more athletes
and serve them better. Ultimately, I want to be able to
serve as many people as possible.
It’s really two-fold. On a smaller scale, I want adaptive
sports nationwide—not just where there are mountains
or where recreation is cherished. So that it’s the norm
in every Park and Recreation system. On a larger scale,
I want to see the level increase internationally—to grow
awareness so people can see what recreation does for
people with disabilities.
In life, it’s through physical activity—running, creating
a challenge for myself. Every year I create a new challenge
that stretches my limits. In work, I never really tell
anyone no. If we’re going to do it then we’re going to
make it work, and I stretch it that way.
WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF?
I’m afraid of elevators. I’ve never been stuck in one but
that’s my fear. I take the stairs. In work my fear is funding.
I always want to make sure we have enough to do what
we do for anyone regardless of a financial situation.
SKI OR SNOWBOARD? Ski.
BIKE OR PADDLE? Paddle.
OLIVIA JOSEPH, CTRS
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
WHY ARE YOU HERE?
I’m here because I love working with
people. I love the outdoors and bringing
the two together is the perfect combination.
HOW DID YOU GET HERE? HOW DID YOU GET
INTO THIS? I started out as an English major and
realized it wasn’t where I wanted to be. I found therapeutic
recreation and loved it. In pursuing that, I landed an
internship at the Adaptive Sports Center in Crested Butte
where I met Maggie. And the rest, as they say, is history.
The people I get to meet, and getting to know them at
the mountain or out on the trail, I have so many great
experiences with these people so I’m just smiling every
day—interns, athletes and volunteers—everyone seems
to feed off of each other’s happiness and excitement!
ORGANIZATION? I would love a permanent home at
Sugarbush to be able to really serve anybody and every-
body who wants to get out and play. I would also love
for us to be known worldly, have a face and voice all
around the world and to be recognized as one of the
forerunners in adaptive sports.
That there are programs available everywhere so anyone
can get outside regardless of ability or ability to pay.
I like to set goals and challenge myself daily, I think it’s
important to be on the edge of your comfort zone, that’s
where you grow the most.
WHAT ARE YOU AFRAID OF?
Mascots. They give me the creeps.
SKI OR SNOWBOARD? Ski
BIKE OR PADDLE?
Mountain bike
TOM ALCORN
SENIOR PROGRAM
COORDINATOR
WHY ARE YOU HERE?
I’ve always had a personal
connection to the ski industry,
to the people who are physically active with disabilities
or otherwise, and a connection to that philosophy. I truly
believe in the mission and philosophy for getting people
out to do physical activity and recreation. Many people
have barriers, whether it’s financial or simply the commit-
ment, but everyone should have the opportunity to
overcome those barriers.
HOW DID YOU GET HERE? HOW DID YOU
GET INTO THIS TYPE OF WORK? A few personal
connections led me to Vermont Adaptive. I had a family
member with a disability who was still very active, and
I was a caregiver for someone who had Dementia and
Alzheimer’s Disease. Both of those experiences got me
interested in the helping field and it seemed like a good fit.
What makes me laugh is when someone figures out that
they can do something that they had no idea that they
could do. They’re surprised by that and the joy they get
out of that is awesome to watch. Other people’s
excitement and joy makes me laugh.
ORGANIZATION? My hope is that Vermont Adaptive
is strengthened by more volunteers statewide and to build
upon our group of volunteers so that our veteran volunteers
can pass on their knowledge to the new and upcoming
generation of volunteer instructors. Our older generation
of volunteers has a lot of knowledge to impart to younger
people, and not just the techniques they use for teaching,
but so much more wisdom on a broader scale.

GIVING TUESDAY 2017
Where: Virtually, online, program locations 
When: Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2017 
More Info: www.vermontadaptive.org 
Vermont Adaptive is excited to be participating
in this movement for the fourth year in a row.
There are loads of ways you can participate –
donate your time and talent or simply make
a donation online. Visit our website for more
details on how you can give to your adaptive
sports community, and in turn, pay it forward
to someone else. Help us reach our goal of
raising $80,000 for #GivingTuesday 2017.
24-HOURS OF BOLTON
BACKCOUNTRY
Where: Bolton Valley Ski Area, VT 
When: Feb. 10-11, 2018 
More Info: www.nativeendurance.com 
Native Endurance is excited to host New
England’s second annual 24-hour backcountry
ski and splitboard race at Bolton Valley Ski Area.
The race offers two challenging courses—a daytime
loop in Bolton’s backcountry, and an overnight loop
on Bolton’s groomed terrain. Participants pay an
entry fee and then fundraise for Vermont Adaptive.
VERMONT SPORTS MEDICINE CENTER
5K WALK/RUN TO BENEFIT VERMONT
ADAPTIVE
Where: Rutland, VT 
When: Early May 2018, TBA
More Info/Register: www.vsmc.org 
Come walk, run or roll (open to hand cyclists) at this
annual event, where part of the proceeds will benefit
Vermont Adaptive. Includes a kid’s fun run.
THE EIGHTH ANNUAL LONG TRAIL
CENTURY RIDE TO BENEFIT VERMONT
ADAPTIVE
Where: Killington Region, VT 
When: June 23, 2018
More Info/Register: www.longtrailcenturyride.com
The goal of the annual event is to enjoy the beauty of
Vermont through cycling all while raising funds for
the state’s largest nonprofit organization committed
to providing sports and recreation to people with
disabilities. We hope to raise $300,000 in 2018!
Whether cycling on the 100-mile, 60-mile or 40-mile
loops, or simply journeying near the Brewery on the 20-
mile loop or the family-friendly 5K, there is something
for everyone to enjoy during the Long Trail Century Ride.
All courses start and finish at Long Trail Brewery, located
on Route 4. The festivities continue for all after the ride
at the brewery, where a BBQ menu will be prepared, live
music and family entertainment, refreshments, and
more will make this an event not to be missed.
THE 30TH ANNUAL VERMONT 100-MILE
ENDURANCE RUN OR RIDE 
Where: South Woodstock, VT 
When: July 21-22, 2018
More Info: www.vermont100.com 
The Vermont 100-Mile Endurance Run or Ride is one of
the few around the clock 100-Mile Ultra Marathons held
in the United States. The runners have 30 hours to get
this intense race done—the course record is just under
15 hours. This race is unique in that it contains an
equestrian track to the race. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
THE 26TH ANNUAL VERMONT 50
MOUNTAIN BIKE ENDURANCE RUN 
Where: Ascutney Mountain, Brownsville, VT 
When: Sept. 30, 2018 
More Info: www.vermont50.com 
This is one of the organization’s largest fundraisers,
raising more than $40,000 a year for Vermont Adaptive
programs. Each year the Vermont 50 draws a national
crowd of more than 600 world-class mountain bikers
and several hundred ultra-runners to race through the
back woods and trails of scenic Eastern Vermont.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
ALLEN CLARK HILL CLIMB
Where: Waitsfield, VT 
When: Early Oct. 2018 
More Info: www.achillclimb.org 
Held annually, the Allen Clark Bicycle Hill Climb is
named in honor of long-time Mad River Valley resident,
Allen Clark. An avid cyclist who took up biking late in
life, he rode 2,500–3,000 miles annually in Vermont.
Allen especially loved the challenge of the Appalachian
Gap. This event is a tribute to Allen’s life and a fundraiser
for Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, an organization
that meant a great deal to him.
EVENTS Fundraisers 2017-2018

RUTLAND
BURLINGTON
BOLTON
WATERBURY
MONTPELIER
SPRINGFIELD
FROM THE SOUTH OF THE
STATE TOWARD THE CANADIAN
BORDER, WE LOVE PLAYING IN
VERMONT. WHILE WE HAVE
MANY LOCATIONS THAT ARE
OUR FAVORITES, WE ARE ALWAYS
SEEKING OUT NEW PLACES TO
EXPLORE. HAVE AN IDEA?
LET US KNOW!
WHERE TO FIND US:
Some of the places where we love
to recreate in the summer:
• Lake Champlain
• Burlington Bike Path
• Chittenden Reservoir
• Kent Pond
• Waterbury Reservoir
• Stoughton Pond
• Castleton Rail Trail
• Upper Valley/Lebanon Rail Trail
• Petra Cliffs
• Other areas upon request
Some of the places where we love
to recreate in the winter:
• Pico Mountain/Killington Resort
• Sugarbush Resort
• Bolton Valley Ski Area
• Mad River Glen
• Suicide Six
• Mountain Meadows Cross Country Ski Area
• Green Mountain Rock Climbing Gym
• Other areas upon request
CENTRAL CONTACT:
OLIVIA JOSEPH
NORTH@VERMONTADAPTIVE.ORG
NORTHERN CONTACT: KELLY WALSH
TRUENORTH@VERMONTADAPTIVE.ORG
SOUTH CENTRAL CONTACT:
TOM ALCORN
SOUTH@VERMONTADAPTIVE.ORG
our color stacked.
KILLINGTON
AUDI FIS SKI WORLD CUP
KILLINGTON
Four color horizontal.
Killington, Vermont
November 24-26, 2017
killington.com/worldcup
©
2017-18 Killington/Pico Ski Resort Partners,LLC.
Open THURSDAY thru MONDAY PEAK PERIODS
57 trails ° 7 lifts ° 1,967’ vertical
(866) 667 PICOpicomountain.com
With just 24-hours notice,purchase Pico
E-tickets online at picomountain.com/tickets
and pick them up at the
Pico Sales Center upon arrival.
You won’t get a better deal anywhere else–
we guarantee it.
SAVE UP TO 50%
ON LIFT TICKETS
WEST LEBANON, NH

WINTER PROGRAMS 2017-2018
SNOWSHOEING CROSS-COUNTRY
SKIING ADVENTURES
Where: Bolton Valley, Rutland County,
Mad River Valley, Washington County
When: By reservation; 1 hr. session, call your
program location for details.
INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING
Where: Held at Sugarbush Health and Racquet Club
in Waitsfield, Green Mountain Rock Climbing Center
in Rutland, and Petra Cliffs in Burlington
When: By reservation; 1 hr. session, call your program
location for details.
VERMONT ADAPTIVE
SKI AND SNOWBOARD TEAM
Where: Mt. Ellen at Sugarbush Resort Pico Mountain
When: Sunday afternoons to prepare for Special
Olympics Vermont Winter Games and other races
Cost: Call for pricing
Vermont Adaptive Race Team athletes train every Sunday
afternoon at Mt. Ellen at Sugarbush Resort in Waitsfield
and Pico Mountain in Killington. In partnership with
Special Olympics Vermont, members of the Chittenden
County Special Olympics ski team join in the training
as well at Sugarbush, and members of the Rutland Eagles
Special Olympics team train with the Vermont Adaptive
team at Pico. The emphasis of this training is improve-
ment of personal skiing skills, race training, making
new friends, and FUN! Contact us to be an athlete, a
coach, or to be involved in the alpine race program.
DAILY ADAPTIVE SKI
SNOWBOARD LESSONS
CONTACT
Pico Mountain Southern Vermont:
south@vermontadaptive.org : 802.353.7584
Mt. Ellen at Sugarbush Resort Waterbury/
Montpelier Areas: north@vermontadaptive.org
802.343.1193
Bolton Valley Ski Area, Chittenden County and the
Burlington Region: truenorth@vermontadaptive.org
802.353.3178
Taught by highly-trained volunteer-instructors, we
offer skiing and riding for participants of all abilities.
Whether you’re an individual skiing for the first time, a
group of participants from a school, club or institution
with varying levels of ability, or someone who has skied
before, our instructors will put you in the right adaptive
equipment for an incredible experience on the mountain.
Cost: Inquire with each program location’s coordinator.
AT PICO MOUNTAIN
When: Thursday–Monday, Dec. 26, 2017 – End of
March/early April, 2018 (weather permitting)
Time: Half Day or Full Day
9:30 a.m. – Noon and/or 1:00–3:30 p.m.
RENTAL EQUIPMENT
Adaptive renters will be required to show basic knowledge
of adaptive equipment. Equipment must remain onsite
at the host mountain. Traditional alpine skis and snow-
boards are available for rent. Nordic skis, boots and
snowshoes also may be available.
WINTER GROUP OUTINGS
ADVENTURES: AVAILABLE AT
PICO MOUNTAIN, MT. ELLEN AT
SUGARBUSH RESORT BOLTON VALLEY
We can customize and schedule daily, weekend, or even
weekly outings for your group during the winter and
have worked with various groups from all over the
Northeast and beyond. Let us know your ideas!
NOTES ABOUT RESERVATIONS
Please make your reservation at vermontadaptive.org.
Payment is required at the time of all reservations.
• Cancellation Policy: Please call to cancel with more
than 24 hours’ notice. If you cancel with less than
24 hours’ notice you will be charged for 50% of
your program fee. No call-no
show will be charged for
full program fee.
• Please give us two
weeks’ notice before
you plan to visit us.
Our space is limited.
AT MT. ELLEN AT
SUGARBUSH RESORT
When: Daily, Dec. 26, 2017 – End of
March/early April, 2018 (weather permitting)
9:30 a.m. – Noon and/or 1:00–3:30 p.m.
AT BOLTON VALLEY
When: Daily, Dec. 26, 2017 – End of March/early
April, 2018 (weather permitting)
9:30 a.m. – Noon and/or 1:00–3:30 p.m.
11TH ANNUAL USABA WINTER FESTIVAL
Where: Pico Mountain
When: Feb. 9-12, 2018
Contact: Tom Alcorn, 802.353.7584,
south@vermontadaptive.org
Vermont Adaptive is teaming up with the United States
Association of Blind Athletes to host its 11th Annual
USABA Winter Festival. Participants choose to either
“learn to ski” or “learn to race” in downhill and
cross-country.
• First-time skiers and competitive racers,
all abilities and ages welcome.
• Guides and instructors provided.
• Skiing, cross country skiing, banquet dinner,
pizza party and more.
• To register, visit: www.usaba.org
24 25

26 Follow Us! MT[V^
SAILING
Where: Lake Champlain, Burlington Waterfront
When: 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. seven days a week, June–Sept.
Advanced Reservations Required
The Sonar we use has been adapted so that the skipper
sits facing forward without the need to switch sides as
the boat turns. Encircling this gimbaled seat is a horizontal
steering wheel. The Sonar sails with up to 6 people and
has a heavy keel under the bottom, which makes
for excellent stability. In partnership with
the Community Sailing Center.
PRIVATE COMPETITIVE
SAILING LESSONS
Where: Lake Champlain,
Burlington Waterfront
When: Times vary, June–August
Advanced Reservations Required
The goal of these lessons is to enable
students with disabilities to sail
independently. The Martin 16, a single or
double-handed keelboat (again, will not tip over)
was designed to level the playing field for people
with physical disabilities to race in open fleets with
a time or not.
C.O.R.E. CONNECTIONS AND ECOABLE
ADVENTURES
See pages 8 9 for details.
CYCLING
Where: Burlington Bike Path, Burlington; Castleton Rail
Trail, Castleton and other locations by request
When: Reservation only; contact your program
coordinator for availability
Tandem Cycling, Hand Cycling and guided bike path
trips all are available throughout various locations around
the state. Tandem cycling is ideal for people with visual
or other impairments. We also offer a variety of children
and adult hand cycles for people with a physical disability
that limits the use of their legs for bike riding.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Where: All over the state of Vermont, including but not
limited to: Mad River Valley, Rutland, Killington,
Pittsfield, Colchester, White River Junction
When: By reservation and selected dates
Come join Vermont Adaptive in the woods! Vermont
Adaptive’s adaptive mountain biking program is one of
the first in New England. The program offers access to
adaptive mountain bikes and lessons and rides at locations
throughout the state and allows athletes to get off road
and onto dirt. All abilities are welcome, and athletes may
bring their own equipment as well. Vermont Adaptive’s
equipment includes: Off road hand cycles, off road foot
pedaled recumbents and standard 2-wheel mountain bikes.
CUSTOM GROUP OUTINGS
ADVENTURES
We can schedule daily, weekend or even weekly outings
specific to your group. You think of it and we will create
it in the Vermont community of your choice! In addition
to our program list, we offer Hiking, Ice Skating, trips to
museums, and more.
CLIMBING
Where: Petra Cliffs, Burlington;
Green Mountain Rock Climbing, Rutland
When: By reservation
Learn how to belay and climb safely.
Petra Cliffs’ and Green Mountain Rock
Climbing’s experienced and knowledge-
able staff can even set up a haul system
to assist people with physical disabilities
to learn to climb. More info can be
found at petracliffs.com and
greenmountainrockclimbing.com.
CONTACT
South Central Vermont:
south@vermontadaptive.org : 802.353.7584
Waterbury Montpelier Areas / Central VT:
north@vermontadaptive.org : 802.343.1193
Burlington Waterfront Points North:
truenorth@vermontadaptive.org : 802.353.3178
CANOE, KAYAK PADDLEBOARDING
Where: Lake Champlain, Burlington/Waterbury
Reservoir/ Stoughton Pond/ Chittenden Reservoir/
Other areas upon request
When: Varies depending on location 
The freedom offered by paddling pushes aside the barriers
presented by disabilities. Vermont Adaptive has a fleet
of canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks, and stand-up
paddleboards available for day trips on a variety
of waterways in Vermont.
THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACK RIDING
Where: Moonrise Farm, Taftsville
When: By reservation, contact 802.345.5637
Therapeutic Horseback riding and instruction using
equine assisted activities for the purpose of contributing
positively to the emotional, cognitive, physical, and
social well-being of individuals with disabilities.
BEEPER BASEBALL OTHER SPORTS
Beeper Baseball is a game similar to baseball that is adapted
for people who are blind or visually impaired. It gives
people with disabilities the opportunity to get involved
in a fun, competitive team sport.
Please contact the program
location where you would
like to participate for
details.
SUMMER PROGRAMS 2018

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMMING THROUGHOUT THE STATE OF VERMONT
There’s something more to the Sugarbush experience than our
legendary terrain variety, meticulous snowmaking and grooming,
fabled history, and authentic Vermont mountain setting.
Come discover what makes Sugarbush different.
For the best deals on season passes, discount tickets,
lodging and more, visit sugarbush.com.
Adventure
Awaits
sugarbush.com 800.53.SUGAR #SUGARBUSH
• Alpine Skiing
• Canoeing Kayaking
• Cycling 
• School Outreach
• Sailing
• Paddleboarding
• Specialty Events
• Presentations at
Conferences in
Classrooms
• Goalball 
• Adventure Weekends
• Snowshoeing 
• C.O.R.E. Connections
• Cross Country Skiing
• Snowboarding 
• EcoAble Adventures
• Wellness Retreats
ERIN FERNANDEZ
Executive Director
director@vermontadaptive.org
802.786.4991 x21 • M: 802.353.8129
MAGGIE BURKE
Managing Director
managingdirector@vermontadaptive.org
802.786.4991 x30 • M: 802.282.9784
KIP DALURY
Office Manager
office@vermontadaptive.org 802.786.4991 x22
KIM JACKSON
Director of Communications Marketing
pr@vermontadaptive.org 
802.786.4991 x24 • M: 802.345.9730
JEFF ALEXANDER
Director of Strategic Partnerships
partners@vermontadaptive.org
802.786.4991 x29
TOM ALCORN
Senior Program Coordinator 
south@vermontadaptive.org 
802.786.4991 x25 • M: 802.353.7584 
Winter Programs at Pico Mountain and in the
South Central Region.
KELLY WALSH
Program Coordinator 
truenorth@vermontadaptive.org 
802.786.4991 x27 • M: 802.353.3178 
Winter Programs at Bolton Valley Ski Area. Summer Programs
on Lake Champlain in Burlington, the Burlington Waterfront
and surrounding areas. Veterans Programs statewide.
OLIVIA JOSEPH, CTRS
Program Coordinator 
north@vermontadaptive.org 
802.786.4991 x26 • M: 802.343.1193 
Winter Programs at Sugarbush Resort. Summer
Regional Mountain Biking. Summer Paddling and
Cycling in Central Vermont.
MACLEOD “MAC” JANNEY
Development Coordinator
development@vermontadaptive.org
802.786.4991 x23 • M: 802.345.4025
SHANNON CURRIE
Projects and Services Assistant
projects@vermontadaptive.org
802.786.4991 x31
FOLLOW US! MT[V^
VERMONTADAPTIVE.ORG
OUR HEADQUARTER OFFICES ARE LOCATED AT PICO MOUNTAIN IN KILLINGTON
Mailing Address: Vermont Adaptive Ski Sports PO Box 139 Killington, VT 05751
Shipping Address: 77 Alpine Drive, Pico Mountain, Killington, VT 05751
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Henry Erickson, President, Warren, VT
Paul Toth, Vice President, Williston, VT
Andy Cook, Treasurer, Waitsfield, VT
Phil Black, Secretary, Killington, VT
Tori Pesek, Waitsfield, VT 
Beth Cook, Waitsfield, VT
Kelly Lange, Killington, VT 
Ross Almo, Mendon, VT 
Sarah DeBlois, New York, NY 
AFFILIATES / RESORT SPONSORS

Non Profit Org
U.S. Postage
PAID
Wht Riv Jct, VT
Permit No. 73
Vermont Adaptive Ski Sports
P.O. Box 139
Killington, VT 05751

Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports Magazine

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