BC Adaptive Snowsports Association

BC Adaptive Snowsports Association (Business Registration Number: 118885813RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to providing adaptive skiing and snowboarding opportunities for individuals with physical and/or cognitive disabilities across British Columbia. Established in 1973, the organization works collaboratively with various adaptive snowsport clubs and volunteers to offer tailored lessons and programs that accommodate participants’ abilities, facilitating access to winter sports on the province’s hills and mountains[1][5].

Mission and Vision

The association’s mission is to support adaptive snowsports clubs, volunteers, and participants throughout British Columbia through training, financial support, and advocacy efforts. Its vision is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience snowsports regardless of physical or cognitive challenges[1].

Programs and Services

BC Adaptive Snowsports operates a wide range of adaptive snowsport programs delivered by trained volunteer instructors and technical experts. These include lessons for sit-ski, stand-up ski, visually impaired skiers, and participants with cognitive impairments. The organization also provides adaptive snowsport equipment and promotes accessibility to snowsports through advocacy and community engagement[1][4].

One notable program is “Shoulder 2 Shoulder,” a province-wide initiative that offers recreational skiing and snowboarding opportunities specifically for veterans and first responders[3].

The association also serves as the provincial sport organization supporting Alpine Canada’s para-alpine ski team, aiding in athlete development and competitive para-sports[1].

Events and Training

BC Adaptive Snowsports hosts several events such as the BCAS Summit, All Mountain Camp, Club Conference, and the SheCan initiative aimed at empowering female participants. They also offer instructor and coach training programs to ensure high-quality delivery of adaptive snowsports instruction and safe sport practices[2].

Governance and Staff

The organization is led by a board of directors and supported by a dedicated staff team. Key leadership includes:

• Sarah Morris-Probert PLY (President)
• James Cooney (Vice President)
• Sasha Djurdjevic (Treasurer)
• Donovan Tildesley (Secretary)

Staff includes:

• Sandra Haziza, Executive Director
• Corinne Risler, Snowbility & Athlete Development Manager
• Heather Schoutens, Program Coordinator[1].

Community and Partnerships

BC Adaptive Snowsports partners with donors, funders, sponsors, and adaptive snowsport clubs to remove barriers to participation and foster an inclusive environment for winter sports. Their membership system also provides liability insurance coverage for participants during adaptive lessons[1][4].

The association’s office is located in Vancouver, on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples[2].

Overall, BC Adaptive Snowsports Association plays a vital role in the promotion and development of adaptive winter sports in British Columbia, enriching the lives of children, youth, adults, veterans, and first responders through accessible and supportive snowsport experiences[1][3][5].