Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks Society

Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks Society (Business Registration Number: 847760881RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and providing accessible outdoor adventure experiences for individuals living with physical, visual, cognitive, and neurodivergent challenges. Established in 2008 and officially recognized as a charity in 2013, the organization operates primarily at Sun Peaks Resort in British Columbia, Canada[1][3].

Mission and Vision

The organization's mission is to make outdoor mountain experiences accessible to all, focusing on adaptive sports and recreational opportunities that empower individuals with disabilities to enjoy winter and summer activities with independence and exhilaration[1][3]. Its vision is centered on inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that people of all abilities can engage in sports and outdoor adventures.

History and Organization

Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks was founded by volunteers who identified a community need to provide adaptive ski and snowboard opportunities for people with disabilities. Since its inception, the organization has grown substantially, relying on over 55 trained volunteer instructors to deliver programs throughout the winter and now in the summer season[1]. Volunteer training and development are ongoing to ensure a high standard of safety and quality instruction.

The organization was granted not-for-profit status in 2010 and became a registered charity in 2013, operating under the Canadian charitable registration number 847760881RR0001[1][3].

Programs and Services

Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks offers a range of programs tailored to various disabilities and abilities, including:

• Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Lessons: Customized lessons using adaptive equipment such as sit-skis, three-track and four-track skis, and accommodations for visual and hearing impairments, as well as intellectual and neurodivergent conditions[1][2].

• School Programs: Designed to assist students with disabilities in participating in school-sponsored outdoor and adaptive sports activities.

• Summer Experiences: Expanding beyond winter sports, the organization offers summer activities including hiking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), canoeing, and mountain biking, all adapted to participant needs[1].

• Volunteer Instructor Training: Continuous training programs for volunteers to maintain a safe, supportive, and positive environment for participants[1].

Partnerships and Community Impact

Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks collaborates closely with the Sun Peaks Sports School, which supports both physical and cognitive disability adaptive instruction. This partnership enhances access to world-class terrain and professional instruction at Sun Peaks Resort, serving guests locally and from across Canada and internationally[2].

The organization operates on a volunteer-powered model, engaging community members and creating an inclusive environment that encourages repeated participation by students year after year. Fundraising initiatives support the purchase of specialized adaptive equipment and the growth of program offerings, ensuring sustainability and program development[3].

Recognition and Registration

Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks is officially registered as a Canadian charitable organization, enabling it to receive donations that support its mission and provide donors with tax receipt benefits[3].

Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks Society plays a vital role in promoting inclusivity in outdoor adventure sports, offering people living with disabilities opportunities to experience the freedom and exhilaration of mountain activities throughout the year. Its continued focus on volunteer engagement, program expansion, and community partnership underscores its commitment to accessible recreation for all.