Every great instructor starts somewhere, and for many at the Adaptive Sports Center, that journey begins as a volunteer. For Sophie, it started with a simple observation. “Every time I skied by, I couldn’t help but notice big smiles and a sense of empowerment,” she shared. That curiosity quickly turned into a deeper passion, both for the innovative adaptive equipment and for the people who make this community so special. Through the Volunteer-to-Instructor (VTI) program, Sophie not only built technical skills but also found a connection. From bonding with fellow volunteers to sharing plenty of laughter, the experience showed her that great instructors bring both knowledge and joy to every lesson. Today, being an instructor means creating meaningful, one-on-one impact. “I get the chance to connect with someone over our love of outdoor sports, while helping them feel safe and seen just the way they are,” Sophie said. Along the way, she’s developed a deeper understanding of how to support individuals with a wide range of abilities, learning that with the right mindset and tools, there’s a way for everyone to get outside. Her advice for anyone considering volunteering?: “Do it!” Because at the end of the day, programs like VTI don’t just build instructors, they build community, confidence, and a whole lot of joy on the mountain.
