Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports (STARS) Find Ways to Navigate Pandemic While Continuing to Serve Their Clients
STARS Year in Review : 362 Invidividuals Served | 53 Military Served | 101 Scholarships Provided
The uncertainty of what lies ahead for the 20/21 ski season has not deterred Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports (STARS) Executive Director, Gardner Flanigan and his team from heading into winter full steam ahead. Since 2006, STARS has offered clients with physical and cognitive disabilities the opportunity to embrace recreational activities on and off the mountain. The 501 (c) (3) organization is the exclusive partner of adaptive ski and snowboard lessons at Steamboat Resort. Clients over five years old can work with volunteers to blind ski, bi-ski, mono-ski, and adaptive snowboard.
The organization has had to make adaptations to their programing in light of the pandemic, but is able to safely maintain services. “We can only do our best, and if we all do our best, then we lessen the risks and we will be okay,” Flanigan said. Three locals’ programs began this month including: All Access for 5-12 year olds, Mountain Access for ages 18 and over and Special Olympics Training. Out of town visitor reservations are down 30% from last year, but the group has over 100 lessons scheduled during the holidays. Participant numbers had to be limited for their veteran and visually impaired camps across the season, which now have waiting lists.
Recognized as One of the Leading Adaptive Ski and Ride Programs in the US
“People that are starved of getting outdoors understand the risks, but they want to get outside and feel the wind in their face,” added Flanagan. STARS has developed an international reputation and was recognized by USA Today as one of the leading adaptive ski and ride programs in the country. Earlier this year, the organization opened a 27-bed lodge, three miles from the ski area. The STARS Ranch will offer respite and a chance for clients to bond together and share healing experiences.
Phase two of the capital campaign project is slated for 2021, which hopes to raise funds for an indoor riding arena, ropes course, accessible trails and yurts.