Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports

Description

Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports (VASS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing recreational sports opportunities to people with disabilities. VASS has been offering downhill skiing and snowboarding in Vermont for 12 years and currently has programs at Pico Mountain and Sugarbush. Both of these programs are available 7 days a week during the ski season. In addition, VASS offers summer programs throughout the state. These include canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, sailing, horseback riding and biking (both road and mountain). VASS offers ski or snowboard lessons to people of all ages with any type of disability. Lessons are by appointment and are offered in morning, afternoon, or full-day sessions. Costs of lessons include lift ticket, instruction (frequently one or more instructors per student), and any adaptive equipment required. Volunteer instructors teach lessons ranging from beginner to advanced. Students may book lessons as individuals or as part of a group. Family members or friends of VASS students are invited to participate and, if interested, can learn the adaptation needed to help their skier achieve as much independence as possible. VASS is supported by private and corporate donations and by fundraisers operated by its hundreds of volunteers throughout the state. A scholarship program is available to those who are unable to pay for lessons in the sport of their choice.