Blogging at the BOEC
Generosity Spotlight: Limber Grove
Limber Grove is a Breckenridge business with heart, blending nature and community to serve both locals and tourists. Founded by Mason Mitchell, it provides a platform for him and other locals to share their creative products and build connections. The business's mission is to embody the [...]
It’s the People Who Make the BOEC Special: Volunteer Nick Fuller
In recognition of Veteran’s Day, we are excited to feature Nick Fuller, BOEC volunteer and US Army veteran in our series, It’s The People Who Make BOEC Special. Growing up in Iowa, Nick Fuller found joy in the winters, especially when they involved skiing adventures. He [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Board Member Michael Carrigan
We are each shaped by a collection of experiences throughout life. From the influences of skiing to public service, to volunteering while traveling to his career as an attorney, Michael Carrigan has found a good fit on the BOEC Board of Directors, combining many of his [...]
A Summer of Outdoor Fun at BOEC
Our summer in the Rocky Mountains may be short, but we enjoy it to the fullest whether on the rivers, the bike paths, or on the ropes course! This is how one participant described their experience this summer at a BOEC led Brain Injury Alliance of [...]
BOEC’s Tee It Up Golf Scramble: A Day of Fun, Competition, and Generous Support
On a beautiful summer day in August, the 15th annual Tee It Up Golf Scramble was held at Keystone Ranch Golf Course, raising over $78,000 in gross proceeds to directly support BOEC's adaptive outdoor programming. This success wouldn’t have been possible without the generous contributions of [...]
Generosity Spotlight: The Richard Reed Foundation
With BOEC’s Tee It Up Golf Scramble right around the corner on Monday, August 19th, we want to thank our dedicated sponsors and highlight our two-time golf ball sponsor, Richard Reed Foundation, who supports BOEC year-round, including all three of our signature events. Tamara Valdez, Executive [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Steph Zukowski, Intern Program Coordinator
Steph Zukowski's BOEC story began when she applied for the BOEC summer 2020 internship. Unfortunately, the program that summer was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the only time in BOEC's history that this has happened. Undeterred, she relocated from the midwest to Breckenridge, Colorado [...]
Having Fun at Wilderness Camp
There’s something about being immersed in the outdoors on a river trip that creates a great environment for individuals to learn new things, from setting up camp and water navigation to teamwork and emotional growth. For over 20 years, the BOEC has led Wilderness Camp, a [...]
BOEC’s Heroic Military Program
Kirk of The Not Forgotten veteran group shared his experience after a ski trip with BOEC: “I really cannot explain in words how important this trip has been for me and the newfound friends and colleagues along the way. This has included having the opportunity to [...]
Frank Martinez: BOEC Adaptive Ski Instructor and Army Veteran
This month, in honor of Memorial Day, we are highlighting Frank Martinez, a veteran and instructor with BOEC’s Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program. Deployed six months after completing high school, Frank’s military experience in South Korea broadened his perspectives and honed his skills. Following retirement from [...]
Reflecting on the Winter Season: Honoring the Committed Volunteers, Staff, and Interns at BOEC
BOEC’s Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program brought excitement, smiles, and a sense of wonder to those of all abilities through winter sports this season. This took the collaboration and dedication of numerous instructors, volunteers, and interns, teaching close to 3,000 ski, snowboard, and Nordic ski lessons [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Meet the Dogs of BOEC
To celebrate National Pet Month, we're thrilled to introduce the beloved dogs who brighten up our ski, wilderness, and administrative offices at BOEC. These furry companions are not just our best friends; they bring energy when needed and a soothing presence when things are hectic. Meet the wonderful dogs [...]
Empowering Summit County Youth Through the Snow Sports Alliance
While we live in a beautiful mountain community where winter sports abound, it is no secret that these activities are out of reach for many. With a commitment to community and inclusive access, a number of organizations and dedicated community members have come together over the [...]
Over Two Decades of Thrills: FVSRA’s Transformative Skiing Adventures with BOEC’s Adaptive Programs
In a remarkable 23-year collaboration, Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) and Fox Valley Special Recreation Association (FVSRA) have partnered to bring the joy of outdoor adventures to FVSRA participants through BOEC's Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program and Wilderness Programs. This past January, a group of eight [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Board Member Gurney Sloan
We like to say that it is the people who make BOEC special due largely to one similarity, an indelible passion for what we do. This passion for making a difference permeates the culture from program instructors and volunteers to the administration teams and to the [...]
A BOEC Love Story: Rob and Sarah Gutierrez
Rob Gutierrez and Sarah Sweet were looking forward to coming to the BOEC for an internship helping those with disabilities in an outdoor setting in 2019. Little did they know, this decision would change their lives forever. Rob and Sarah went on their first date in [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Gene Dayton, BOEC Founder
Over 50 years ago, the BOEC was just a dream for founder Gene Dayton. This dream was formed way back in Gene’s childhood when his father, the local chairman of the Red Cross, operated a swimming pool in Dekalb, Illinois. Gene recollects, “There were several hours [...]
The Past Year in Review at BOEC
It takes an entire community of donors and community partners, staff, board, volunteers, interns, participants, and clients, to come together and complete a year of programming and events at BOEC. We are grateful to our community for this collective effort and we are eager and proud [...]
Debi and Denis: A 20 Year Commitment to Volunteering for BOEC
“Absolutely The Best” – these are the three words Debi and Denis Quintero use to describe the BOEC after 20 years of volunteering with the Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program. This generous couple had a very meaningful introduction to BOEC in 1998/99 when Denis learned to [...]
Generosity Spotlight: 2023 Holiday Giving Campaign
A total of 429 generous donors invested in the magic of the BOEC during this year's Holiday Giving Campaign, raising a record-breaking $555,353. This proves to us that our community is committed to helping those with disabilities and special needs and so many others, of any ability level, adventure [...]
Generosity Spotlight: First Nation Group
In honor of Veterans Day, we would like to highlight our Heroic Family Military Program, express gratitude to our military program supporters, and, above all, share the impactful feedback from veterans who joined us in the past year. BOEC has been effectively organizing programs for veterans [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Sean Houston, Assistant Ski Program Director
Oftentimes our first skiing experience is memorable and for Sean Houston, Assistant Ski Program Director for BOEC’s Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program, he describes his first time on Nordic skis as “feeling like a baby giraffe”. With the encouragement of a friend in middle school, Sean [...]
It’s The People Who Make BOEC Special – Volunteer/Program Coordinator, Gardner Popp
From a competitive dancer in Florida to an adaptive ski instructor in Colorado, Gardner Popp, BOEC’s Volunteer/Program Coordinator, is well acquainted with change and adaptability. Originally from Tampa, Florida, Gardner started dancing at the age of three, competing with her dance team for about ten years, [...]
Generosity Spotlight – The Impact of Our Board of Directors
At the core of every successful organization lies a dedicated group of individuals - the board of directors. A board is essentially a team of visionaries, decision-makers, and supporters, guiding the organization towards its objectives. What distinguishes exceptional board members - and this is certainly true [...]
Remembering Dan Grover: A champion of the accessibility community and the generous donation to BOEC in his memory
Dan Grover didn’t let his muscular dystrophy hold him back. He was a larger than life friend to so many, making a significant impact during his life while looking out for others with accessibility challenges. Dan, who had a degree in outdoor education, also had a [...]
A Summer BOEC Adventure with The Woods Project
“I think one of the most memorable moments for the students was when we visited Arches National Park and they got to climb around and explore nature's miraculous architecture. The group, as a whole, really enjoyed exploration in both a physical sense, but also in the [...]
A Look Back at Our 14th Annual Tee It Up Event with a Big Thanks to Vail Resorts EpicPromise
In 2023, the Tee It Up Golf Scramble celebrated its 14th year bringing fun to the greens. This year's event successfully raised over $70,000 in gross proceeds, all of which will directly benefit BOEC's adaptive outdoor programming initiatives. A special thanks goes out to our sponsors, [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Ellen McAleese, Development Coordinator
Imagine rowing across the water in harmony with your crew, moving towards the same goal, enjoying the tranquil beauty of nature around you, and feeling the water against your oar. Ellen McAleese, Development Coordinator at Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center, likens rowing to the teamwork, dedication, camaraderie, connection [...]
Generosity Spotlight: Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
“From dedicated community response to a national movement,” the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation has been committed to supporting organizations that seek to improve the quality of life for people living with paralysis since 1982. In 2022, they proudly announced awarding $1,216,425 to 57 nonprofit organizations [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Volunteers Margie and Joey
A-Team, Dream Team, Dynamic Duo, any of these titles would be a great way to describe BOEC volunteers Margie Sinton and Joey Kraft. Year after year, they are integral to the summer BOEC Adaptive Cycling Program based out of the Keystone Adaptive Center. Margie and Joey [...]
Fighting Back Against Parkinson’s: Roben Seltzer’s Journey Back to Skiing
Prior to developing Parkinson's disease, Roben led a rather conventional life in a suburban area situated approximately 30 miles north of New York City. He spent his time helping to raise his two sons and was actively involved in his community.. Roben coached soccer and served [...]
Generosity Spotlight – Fiesta for BOEC
The beginning of June is always a bustling and exciting time with the completion of summer staff training and the start of summer programming. But the first weeks of June also mean it's time to celebrate and support BOEC during the annual Fiesta for BOEC! On [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Wilderness Program Director Jaime Overmyer celebrates 20 years with BOEC!
BOEC is made up of many amazing, unique and kind hearted people and Jaime Overmyer epitomizes those qualities every day. We are collectively very grateful that Jaime came to the BOEC as an intern way back on May 15th, 2003 and stayed. She has made a [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Board Member John Buhler
Discovering a zeal for skiing at a young age is not unusual, but dedicating your career to a sport you are so passionate about, is much less commonplace. Yet, this is exactly what John Buhler, retired Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Breckenridge Ski Resort, did. Not [...]
Winter Season Wrap-Up: Recognizing the Dedicated Volunteers, Staff and Interns of BOEC
Last winter our high mountain region was a winter wonderland from the sparkling trees to the white-capped Rocky Mountains. However, it wasn't just beautiful, it also offered unforgettable experiences to many people through BOEC’s Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program. With the help of numerous instructors, volunteers, [...]
Enriching Summer Wilderness Programs at BOEC
As the snow begins to melt and temperatures warm we start dreaming of summertime adventures to come. At BOEC we take advantage of the natural outdoor playground and bring adventurers of all ages to enjoy outside experiences with us. The fun begins in earnest in June! [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Jack Finn-Kelcey – From Paratrooper to BOEC Winter Intern
For a man who served as a paratrooper in the British army, worked in a number of private security roles, bodyguarding the rich and famous, taught anti-poaching to rangers in Malawi, protected boats from piracy, and worked in disaster response and animal rescue for the Humane [...]
Donor Spotlight: Donna and Brian Gammenthaler
We often say that we could not do what we do without the generous support of so many loyal and generous donors who have supported us throughout our 47-year history. Our 2021-22 Annual Report highlights the contributions of over 600 individual donors and we are immensely grateful for all [...]
Donor Spotlight: Key Partner, Copper Mountain Resort
Copper Mountain Resort boasts 360-degree high alpine views, 2,500 acres of terrain, and a culture promoting all types of snow sports athletes, including those who ski or snowboard with the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC). With a partnership spanning over 20 years, BOEC and Copper Mountain Resort continue to [...]
The Not Forgotten Of Great Britain
Sitting down for a chat with The Not Forgotten’s Chief Executive, Colonel (RETD) Richard Walker OBE, and Head of Events, Rosie Thompson MBE, on a warm, sunny afternoon at Beaver Run Resort, gave a vivid picture of their passion and the work that goes into this important organization. The [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Karen Skruch
Would you rather stand within three feet of a 1,600 pound Alaskan brown bear in the wild, fly in a parapont from Aiguille du Midi, a 12,605 foot mountain in the Mont Blanc massif within the French Alps, or climb the Matterhorn, one of the most [...]
A BOEC LOVE STORY: The Couples Who Met at BOEC
“BOEC is life-changing” is a narrative we have heard since our founding days in the early 70s and this is certainly true for several young individuals who arrived in Breckenridge for their internship class and ended up finding the love of their life. For this February [...]
Donor Spotlight: MaggieGeorge Foundation
We can’t choose the life we are born into or all of the plot twists that life takes, but thanks to the generous donations from organizations like the MaggieGeorge Foundation, disadvantaged youth in Colorado and New Orleans can pursue excellence in athletics, arts and education. A [...]
BOEC Unveils Newest Edition of the Iconic Green Jacket
If someone tells you to close your eyes and think of BOEC in the winter, what visualization comes to mind? It is likely an image of a smiling participant with our Adaptive Ski and Snowboard staff and volunteers sporting our iconic green jackets. [...]
Jeff Inouye Inducted Into 2022 National Adaptive Sports Hall of Fame
Annually since 1995, the National Adaptive Sports Hall of Fame Award has recognized outstanding individuals who have made a significant contribution to summer and winter adaptive sports in two categories: Competitor and Contributor. The Hall of Fame was created to honor individuals who have had an [...]
Donor Spotlight: BOEC’s Generous Holiday Giving Campaign Donors
As we welcome in the New Year, we would like to take a moment to express our sincerest gratitude to all of you who contributed to the 2022 Holiday Giving Campaign, and simply wanted to say…Thank You! As you may or may not know, the individual, household, company and [...]
Mind’s Eye Travel Brings the World to Those Who Can’t See It
At the BOEC, the Paralympic Games, the Invictus Games and in many families, “VI” stands for Visually Impaired which can mean many different levels of vision for each person. One of BOEC’s friends and supporters is a woman from Maine who learned about “VI'' first-hand. In the 1980s, Sue [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Meet the New Winter Program Ski Members
We are excited to introduce you to the newest program staff who will be greeting you this winter at BOEC’s Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program office in Breckenridge and at the Keystone Adaptive Center. Gardner, Malia, Lindsay and Austin are no strangers to the BOEC in fact, three of [...]
Donor Spotlight: BOEC’s Generous Annual Holiday Giving Campaign Donors
As we enter into the month of November, it seems only fitting that we express our profound gratitude to our thoughtful and generous donors. In keeping with the Thanksgiving theme, this month’s Donor Spotlight shines light on the 392 generous donors who gave to the BOEC during our 2021-2022 [...]
Donor Spotlight: Craig H. Neilsen Foundation
Whether skiing or snowboarding in the Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program, paddle boarding, kayaking, camping, or cycling in the Wilderness Program, there is one granting organization that has supported nearly every element of participant-facing BOEC programming. This month’s Donor Spotlight features The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation (CHNF) which has [...]
Congratulations to the Summer Intern Class of 2022
This past May we returned to a more “typical” Wilderness summer season and welcomed 11 young professionals as part of the BOEC Summer Internship Program! This crew came from as far east as Massachusetts and as far west as California. They brought with them a variety of skill sets [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Melissa Kuwahara Celebrates 20 years with BOEC
Melissa Celebrates 20 years with BOEC! This story was first published in the BOEC Inspirations Newsletter in the spring of 2021 and we are happy to share it with you again as Melissa celebrates 20 years with the BOEC. It is hard to put into words just how important [...]
Another Successful Tee It Up Golf Scramble Is In the Books!
This year’s Tee It Up Golf Scramble sold out for the fourth year in a row and was the most successful tournament to date, raising over $80,000 for BOEC’s adaptive outdoor programming, including the Keystone Adaptive Center and BOEC’s Heroic Military Program. A special thanks goes out to all [...]
The Wilderness Program: Celebrating a Summer Full of Fun Programs!
The 2022 Wilderness Program resumed full operations this year after two years of limited programming post pandemic recovery. We were delighted to welcome a full slate of summer interns and program staff who embraced our returning long-time partners and participants, as well as several new groups. All have enjoyed [...]
Amber Rangel: Using the Outdoors to Live Her Best Life
July 27, 2014, is a day that changed the course of 28-year-old Amber Rangel’s life forever. It was on this day eight years ago when a semi-professional barefoot water skiing accident left the 20-year-old Amber with a broken arm and C5 spinal cord injury that resulted [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Operations Manager Lydia North
The world of adaptive outdoor recreation is ever-changing. Adaptive equipment is constantly evolving, the latest and greatest techniques are advancing, and more and more people are acknowledging and understanding the role that outdoor activity plays in any kind of mental or physical rehabilitation. In that vein, it’s important that [...]
Donor Spotlight: Donna & Kevin Gardner
Donna and Kevin Gardner are the type of people you want to be your neighbors. They are kind, giving, fun, outrageously helpful, and truly hospitable individuals. Kevin, from Marceline, a small town in Missouri, and Donna, originally from Scotland, the couple of 25 years, call Texas home for most [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Board Member Dr. Erin Beckerman
At a young age, Dr. Erin Beckerman gained an appreciation for making connections with those that are, let’s say, less fortunate than her. While the term “fortunate” is relative to those who are using it, for Erin, it happened to come in the form of her cousin who has [...]
Donor Spotlight: BGV’s Dedication to BOEC Through Fundraising Event and More
This month’s Donor Spotlight sheds light on two very important long-time contributors to the BOEC - Dick Carleton and his team at Mi Casa Restaurant and Cantina and Mike Dudick and his team at Breckenridge Grand Vacations (BGV). These two entities are highlighted together because of the tremendous dedication [...]
Kara Brouhard, “Living Her Own Life” After Traumatic Brain Injury
In the blink of an eye, life forever changed for Kara Brouhard, who, as a 5-year-old girl in 1986, was seriously injured by an out-of-control skier at Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort in her hometown of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. While she survived the freak accident, Kara suffered devastating injuries that [...]
Donor Spotlight: Past Interns Give Back to BOEC
One of the most essential programs to Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center’s (BOEC) offerings is the Internship Program. BOEC’s founders established this crucial program soon after becoming a non-profit in the late 1970s in order to create a place where compassionate young professionals had a place to hone their skills, [...]
Local Youth Experience the Benefits of the Great Outdoors with BOEC and SOAP
Studies indicate that nature heals. Getting outside and being active has a wide variety of physical and mental health benefits. Outdoor recreation has been shown to improve focus and self-esteem while lessening anxiety and stress. It’s truly miraculous what the simple act of getting outdoors can do for a [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Facilities & Capital Manager Ben Hickman
There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) Facilities & Capital Manager, Ben Hickman. Ben’s six-foot-four frame can be kind of intimidating when he enters a room, but as soon as he opens his mouth to offer his view on a situation [...]
Donor Spotlight: The Summit Foundation
The Summit Foundation recently released its new strategic plan and it comes as no surprise that all of its priorities revolve around being the leader in developing a collaborative and philanthropic state of mind in the Summit County community. Supporting several initiatives [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Volunteer, Trevor Jackson
With a Volunteer Program that is over 400 members strong, if one starts sorting through the names and personalities, you are apt to find some pretty unique and interesting stories amongst the group. One such Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) volunteer is Trevor Jackson, whose story is as unique [...]
Congratulations 2021-22 Winter Interns!
On Friday, April 29, 2022, 15 Winter Interns officially ended their BOEC Internship Program after six months of hard work, dedication, and commitment to the Adaptive Ski & Snowboard Program and winter Wilderness Program. It was such a pleasure seeing each and every one of these young men and [...]
Making Wishes Come True: Rare Syndrome Doesn’t Stop Adventurous 6-Year-Old from Skiing with BOEC
No parent, no matter who you are, wants to hear the phrase “gross white matter tract damage” from their child’s pediatrician. Or for that matter, you don’t want to hear “your child has a 22q13.2 deletion” either. While to the layman this just [...]
Team Ellie for the Win: Rett Syndrome Doesn’t Stop This 13-Year-Old!
What began as a romantic love story about two people who happened to be at the right place at the right time, turned into a tale of two parents who would eventually find themselves doing anything and everything for their daughter with Rett Syndrome, including moving [...]
Donor Spotlight: Brad Taylor
There are a myriad of different ways to give to the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC), and when we consider someone like Brad Taylor, he nearly covers them all. The Oklahoma native gives back with his time and energy through our Volunteer Program, provides much needed funding and support [...]
Kyle Coon: Back on Skis
I dropped my skis on the ground and scraped the tiny bit of snow that had accumulated on the bottom of my boots off on the brand new bindings I’d had installed on my Kastle (pronounced Kest-lee) twin tips. For ski gear aficionados, no I can’t ski backwards wel [...]
A True BOEC Family Affair: Meet the Pritchards
A little over five years ago, Ben Pritchard was lying in a hospital bed wondering what the future held for him. It was September 10th, 2016, a day on which Ben’s life would change forever. At just 24 years old, the native of Mumbles, Wales was involved in a [...]
A 70th Birthday to Remember! The Story of Bonnie Kittle – Polio Survivor
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) participants come from all walks of life. They come to us from all over the world, of all ages, and with a wide array of disabilities and special needs to experience the life-changing effects of our outdoor programs. One disability that is not usually [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Executive Director Sonya Norris
In 2018, after the 13-year Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) executive director retired, a new era began when current Executive Director Sonya Norris was hired to take over control of the 46-year-old organization. Sonya, who is celebrating her four-year anniversary with the BOEC this month, has as unique a [...]
That’s a Wrap from the 13th Annual Banff Film Festival
The 13th Annual Banff Mountain Film Festival is in the books and wow, what can we say, the weekend events were simply incredible! The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) once again teamed up with the Banff Centre For Arts and Creativity this year, and for the second time ever, [...]
Donor Spotlight: The Elevation Fund
In honor of the month of love, February’s Donor Spotlight shares with you a story of giving that features The Elevation Fund, a group of local couples who have formed a deep friendship and have uniquely come together to celebrate and support a cause they are all passionate about. [...]
Not Afraid to Fail, Afraid Not to Try: The Story of Kevin Brown – Blind Participant
In 1975, visually impaired skiing officially came to the United States - and Summit County - for the first time with Ski for Light, a cross-country skiing event for blind athletes that was modeled after the infamous Ridderrennet in Norway. Gene Dayton, one of Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center’s (BOEC) [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Volunteer, Jane Barber
The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) Volunteer Program is at over 400 individuals strong these days and includes a wealth of knowledge and experience within its ranks. We have volunteers who have given their time and talent to BOEC for anywhere from one month to many years, however, there [...]
Thank You BOEC Community!
As we near the end of this season’s holiday giving season, we would like to take a moment to express our sincerest gratitude to all of you that contributed to the BOEC this year. Every hour volunteered, every dollar donated, every drop of sweat perspired and every ounce of [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Board Member Jennifer Schappert
The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) truly is a place that encourages the continuation of professional development and the giving back to those we serve. Not long ago, we shared the stories of Jillian Palacio and Steve Rubin who both went from interns to full-time staff members as they [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Interns Turned Staff Members, Emma Gilroy & Katie O’Donnell
As a new ski season descends upon us, some new faces will be greeting you on the phone or in person at the Breckenridge Adaptive Ski & Snowboard School. While Katie O’Donnell and Emma Gilroy may be recent additions to the ski office, they aren’t new to the Breckenridge [...]
Longtime BOEC Employee, Earl Richmond, Connects with BOEC in a New Way
You can take the kid out of Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC), but you simply can’t take the BOEC out of the kid. After a decade of working as an intern, instructor, and staff member, Earl Richmond just couldn’t stay away. His BOEC career officially ended in 2002 but [...]
Donor Spotlight: BOEC’s 2020 Generous Annual Appeal Donors
This month’s Donor Spotlight celebrates the 402 wonderful donors who gave generously to BOEC during our 2020-2021 holiday fundraising campaign. This is the time of year when many organizations like the BOEC raise much needed funds to support the work we do throughout the year and we thank every [...]
BOEC Working for the Health of the Planet
The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) is dependent on the outdoors in order to provide meaningful and inspiring experiences for the 3,000+ participants we serve annually. Thus it should come as no surprise that one of our core values is to protect the environment. BOEC is committed to operating [...]
Donor Spotlight: Frank Martinez
When you think of the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC), an elephant or a lion or a giraffe is not often the first association that comes to mind. However, we are very grateful to feature for October’s donor spotlight a unique connection between one of our most dedicated ski [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC Special: Former Board Member Tim Casey
Tim Casey has seen Summit County grow from 4,000 people to over 35,000 people in his 46 years as a local resident. When he and his late wife Patti moved to the area in the mid-1970s there were no stoplights and only a few paved roads to speak of. [...]
12th Annual Tee It Up Event Summary
This year's Tee It Up Golf Scramble sold out for the third year in a row and was the most successful tournament to date, raising over $70,000 for BOEC's adaptive outdoor programming, including the Keystone Adaptive Center and BOEC’s Heroic Military Program. A special thanks goes out to all [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Wilderness Program Coordinator Steven Rubin
We have been sharing stories about the people who make BOEC special this past year and quite often the story is about one of our team members who started out as a BOEC intern and then stayed with us to continue not only their professional development but also to [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Training Coordinator Jillian Palacio
“The BOEC has assisted my growth in every way. I am a better communicator, listener, facilitator, problem-solver and processor because of the opportunities provided to me by this amazing organization.” Jillian on a rafting trip These are the words of eight-year BOEC veteran Jillian Palacio who started [...]
BOEC Ropes Course Like No Other
Nestled between the lodgepole pines and blue spruce trees at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort’s Peak 9 lies BOEC’s crown jewel, it’s 39-acre Wilderness Campus. Located at 9,938 feet in elevation the campus is equipped with the 6,000 square foot Griffith Lodge, an old miner’s cabin from the [...]
Donor Spotlight: Kim & Rosie Batcheller
In 1972, when Kim and Rosie Batcheller moved to Breckenridge, Colorado, the ski area only included Peaks 8 and 9. It cost just $6.50 to get on the mountain. The Eisenhower Tunnel on Interstate 70 was not yet completed, and the population of Breckenridge was under 1,000. The gold [...]
Donor Spotlight: Peggy Manchester
This month’s Donor Spotlight features Peggy Manchester who is a hero in our hearts for being a key participant at our Adventures Within (AWI) retreats, and for recently arranging a planned gift to BOEC. AWI is a series of retreats the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) hosts which provide [...]
Club Forget Me Not and BOEC Tackle the Grieving Process Head On
“Rather than struggle against time and waste it, let’s dance with time and redeem it, because we don’t live longer when we try not to die, we live longer when we’re too busy livin.” Stacy and her staff having a little fun This is a quote from [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Volunteer Bobby Yates
When you look at a large group of just about anything, you’re apt to find a diamond in the rough, a needle in a haystack, or something or someone that stands apart from the rest. So it makes sense that this would ring true within Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center’s [...]
Donor Spotlight: Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
This month’s Donor Spotlight honors Dick Carleton and his team at Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant and Cantina for hosting the first annual Fiesta for BOEC dinner on Thursday June, 3rd which raised a record-breaking $85,000 for BOEC Adaptive Ski and Snowboard and Wilderness Programs. Eighty of BOEC’s friends, both [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Development Manager, Hallie Jaeger
In previous stories about Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) team members, we have talked about the fact that so many of them have been with the organization for so long. For example, Jeff Inouye has been with BOEC for 27 years, Jaime Overmyer for 17 years, Claire DiCola for [...]
From Japan to Breckenridge, BOEC’s Internship Program Knows No Boundaries
From Tokyo, Japan to Ypsilanti, Michigan to Breckenridge, Colorado. This was the journey of former Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) summer intern, Tamiko Kimoto. As one of BOEC’s many international interns over the years she had quite the trek to get here, but it was an experience that she [...]
Medical Students Go Breck Wild with BOEC
There’s a chill in the air and the mid-April snow is lightly falling amidst an old mining area in Breckenridge, Colorado. The adrenaline is palpable and one can feel the extreme sense of urgency as a group of 10 medical students enrolled in a program offered by Sidney Kimmel [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Office Manager, Melissa Kuwahara
For the past 19 years, Office Manager Melissa Kuwahara has been a critical member of the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) organization, doing everything from answering phones to managing payroll to assisting with special events. Whether she wants to admit it or not, Melissa might just be one of [...]
Donor Spotlight: Davignon Charitable Fund
Since 2012, the Davignon Charitable Fund (DCF) has been supporting the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) in a variety of ways, ranging from vehicle upkeep to equipment donations. Even prior to any financial commitments from DCF, the Davignon family participated with The Hartford Ski Spectacular, an event in Breckenridge [...]
Adapt and Overcome: The Story of Bilateral BK Amputee, Austin Lewis
Do you remember your first “real” vacation as an adult? Depending on your age, you may or may not. But one thing for sure is that 25-year-old Austin Lewis won’t be quick to forget his first vacation as a working member of society. His trip this past December took [...]
BOEC Ski Program Staff Reflect Back on the 2020-21 Ski Season
The 2020-21 ski season has been one for the ages. As the world continued to find its way through a global pandemic, here in Breckenridge, Colorado, the BOEC Adaptive Ski & Snowboard Program was busy doing its part by adjusting to meet state and local health guidelines to ensure [...]
Donor Spotlight: Snow Sports Alliance
April’s donor spotlight includes all of the generous supporters who make the Snow Sports Alliance Program (SSA) possible. The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) would like to give a huge thank you to Alpine Bank, The Summit Foundation, Mountain Mentors, Blue River Sports/Mountain Wave, and Beaver Run Resort & [...]
Coleman Shy: SETBP1 Won’t Set Me Apart!
His last name may be Shy, but there’s certainly nothing bashful about 6-year old Coleman Shy. In fact, his dad Matt says that Coleman smiles and laughs more than anyone he’s ever met, and it’s because of this 43-year-old single father of two, and his amazing support group, that [...]
Donor Spotlight: Dave and Mary Durham
Tears of joy are fairly common all around at BOEC. From participants feeling the freedom of outdoor recreation to our staff, volunteers, and donors who witness these events and learn about BOEC’s inspirational stories. As you are well aware by now, it’s the development team’s goal to understand the [...]
Finnegan Rudersdorf: Never Give Up!
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) adaptive ski participant, Finnegan Rudersdorf, was only four years old when diagnosed with a genetic disorder so rare it is believed there are fewer than 100 cases in the world. However, “Finny,” with the support of his family and the BOEC, does not let [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Winter Intern Ben Cole
It’s often been said that the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) is a close-knit family from top to bottom, including its staff, participants and volunteers. This family tradition has transpired exactly how the founders imagined it would when they started the organization 45 years ago and the BOEC Internship [...]
Donor Spotlight: Jim Bartlett & Family
One of the best outcomes of Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center’s (BOEC) Holiday Appeal is not only raising approximately 15% of our annual development budget, but having the chance to reach out to all of our donors and hear their stories and inspiration for giving to BOEC. This year, our [...]
Growing Up Together: Dick Carleton, BOEC and the Town of Breckenridge
Located in the center of downtown Breckenridge, Colorado, Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant & Cantina has been a Breckenridge staple for 40 years. In fact, this locals’ favorite establishment is the longest standing same owned restaurant operating in Breckenridge. One could say that it is Mi Casa’s core values of: [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Volunteer, Clyde Grindell
From the formidable seas of the Atlantic Ocean to the mountainous slopes of Breckenridge, Colorado, Clyde Grindell has made this 2,000-plus mile journey every winter for the past 25 years. The Cape Cod, Massachusetts resident comes to Breckenridge every year for one reason, and one reason only, to volunteer [...]
Donor Spotlight: Gravity Haus
Aerial view of Gravity Haus in Breckenridge Gravity Haus (GH) is the Donor Spotlight this month because of their new and impactful dedication to our cause. BOEC and GH have a synergy of missions, so developing this new corporate partnership came effortlessly. Gravity Haus aims to create [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Claire DiCola, Associate Program Director
Every year, as a sort of rite of passage, young adults move to the ski town of Breckenridge, Colorado to live the coveted “ski bum” lifestyle. However, whether the money runs dry or the sense of adventure finally escapes them, few of them last more than a couple of [...]
The BOEC Puzzle Comes Together: Dr. Aris Sophocles
“The Power of a Good Idea.” This is Dr. Aris Sophocles’ formidable title of the book he would write about the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) and it’s 44-year history. As one of its co-founders in 1976, the New Jersey-native is in the unique position to write this manuscript [...]
Soul of Summit County: ifurnish’s Tony & Kelly Pestello Support BOEC Among Others
If you’ve been in Summit County long enough, you’ve undoubtedly heard of ifurnish. Not necessarily because of any sort of widespread advertising campaign but more likely because of the company’s predominance in supporting many of the areas nonprofit organizations however they can. While, yes, ifurnish’s proprietors, Tony and Kelly [...]
Donor Spotlight: BOEC’s Generous Annual Appeal Donors
This month's Donor Spotlight recognizes YOU, the 347 amazing donors who contributed to BOEC's 2019 Annual Holiday Appeal. An annual appeal is a fundraising strategy charitable organizations use to solicit donations in a widespread campaign once a year, typically around the year's end. We understand there are thousands of [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Kyle Calbat, Ski Program Manager
Each year as the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) staff compiles demographic reports for its Annual Report, one of the more interesting aspects that rises to the surface is that, as an organization, we attract participants not only from across the country, but from all over the world too. [...]
Barb Rankin, Cornerstone Real Estate and BOEC
The BOEC staff recently caught up with BOEC board vice-chair, co-owner of a local business, Cornerstone Real Estate Rocky Mountains, a veteran, and a family member of a participant in BOEC Programs. Barb Rankin has a deep commitment to the BOEC mission and helping the organization thrive, succeed and [...]
Donor Spotlight: Nichole Lutz
Hi, my name is Nichole Lutz. I'm originally from Houston, TX but live in Denver, CO now. Career wise, I started off in the oilfield and now I'm in construction as a project manager. As for hobbies, I love sports. I play soccer quite often and that's actually how [...]
11th Annual Tee It Up Event Summary
The 11th Annual Tee It Up Golf Scramble was the most successful golf tournament to date, raising over $50K for BOEC’s Adaptive Programming, and selling out with 136 golfers on the course. Huge thanks to all our sponsors, golfers, volunteers, and Keystone Staff. This year’s format was a bit different [...]
Local Author, Diane S. Jaffee supports BOEC with book Sheba La Beba
Diane Jaffee is not only a BOEC volunteer but a children's book author. Her latest release, Sheba La Beba and her Furry Forest Friends, tells the story of Diane's adorable Australian Shepard on an adventure along the Sally Barber trail in Breckenridge. If you are a lover of animals, children, Breckenridge, or the BOEC [...]
Donor Spotlight: Zach Dobrota
September’s donor spotlight is Zach Dobrota who gives in more ways than one to the BOEC. If we need golf advice, we turn to Zach, as he is the Copper Golf Pro and Zach was instrumental in donating a 2021 Copper Season Pass to the recent BOEC Tee It Up [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC So Special: Intern Coordinator Kathleen Booth
The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center’s (BOEC) Internship Program is perhaps one of the most unique aspects of the 44-year old nonprofit organization. In fact, one could argue that it’s this program that really sets us apart from the rest. Each year, 26 lucky interns receive unparalleled hands-on experience in [...]
Humans Helping Humans: Angletech Cycles and BOEC
For 44 years the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) has been in the business of providing meaningful, educational and inspiring outdoor experiences to people of all abilities. BOEC’s dedicated staff spends countless hours every day making sure that these experiences are both rewarding and meaningful to all who take part. [...]
Donor Spotlight: Mario & Emilio
Each donor at BOEC has special connections to our programming in one way or another, and we love learning about every supporter’s story. What’s more, is that several donors work for companies that match, double and sometimes even triple their donations. Emilio participates in BOEC's Adaptive Ski [...]
It’s the People Who Make BOEC so Special: Ski Program Director Jeff Inouye
There’s got to be something special going on with the number 27. According to The Secret of the Tarot, “The number 27 expresses a love for and interest in the well-being of humanity and one who is diplomatic and wise. This number is about non-judgment, compassion, and tolerance of [...]
Donor Spotlight: John Parke
John doing what he loves best Every day we are fortunate to get to know more about those donors that give to BOEC. Every single person who gives has their own story about why and each is equally meaningful. This month we’d like to introduce you to [...]
Nobody Knows You Like I Do: BOEC Volunteer Shari Topping Shares Her Story of Triumph and Overcoming Disability
In 1999 the world was in the midst of the “Y2K” hype that had everyone afraid that the end of the world was near. We were less than three months away from the Columbine school shooting tragedy that would ultimately take the lives of 15 and change the landscape [...]
BOEC Supports Community Food Bank
As the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic continue to disrupt all aspects of everyday life in Summit County and around the world, many individuals, businesses and organizations are taking the opportunity to give back to their communities in a variety of ways. In our neck of the woods, the [...]
It’s the People Who Make the BOEC so Special: Wilderness Program Director Jaime Overmyer
In a time when the average salaried employee works for their employer for just a little over four years, the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) greatly defies the norm. Wilderness Program Director Jaime Overmyer is now in her 17th year as part of the BOEC organization and is one [...]
Recycle Sports Gives Back to BOEC
In Summit County where there are quite a number of great ski and snowboard shops, Recycle Sports in Frisco sets itself apart as one of the only local consignment sports shops where you can find new and used gear. The owners of Recycle Sports, Steve and Janet Van Wieringen, [...]
BOEC Volunteer Lance Glaser, 25 Years and Still Going Strong!
On paper, the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) may seem just like all of the other top tier adaptive sports organizations out there, and in many ways, we are. However, that view can be deceiving, as our robust Volunteer Program sets us apart from most. With over 300 volunteers [...]
Donor Spotlight: Nancy Fegley
Nancy Fegley Tell us About Yourself: I live in Breckenridge and Easton, PA. I grew up in Pennsylvania and attended college in PA. I have a degree in Medical Technology and an MBA. I had the opportunity to have a career in healthcare and many years in [...]
Casey Myers – I Can Do It! Adaptive Skiing and More!
It’s often been said that the magic age for learning to ski is five years old. A child around five should be able to get the basics of listening, turning, stopping and managing the lifts enough to get out of the ski school corral and onto the wide-open green [...]
Look What You Helped Us Accomplish in 2018-19!
Wow, what an amazing year we had because of your contributions and support! As you can see from the infographic above, 2018-2019 was one of the more successful years in the history of BOEC, and we look forward to an even better 2020! This past year we served a [...]
Nonprofits, businesses join forces to bring back the Snow Sports Alliance program
Summit Daily News – Taylor Sienkiewicz (January 12, 2020) BRECKENRIDGE SKI RESORT — On Sunday, Jan. 12, the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center hosted representatives from Alpine Bank, Mountain Mentors and The Summit Foundation for a day of skiing and riding at Breckenridge Ski Resort through the newly reinstated Snow Sports [...]
Longtime Summit County local works with military veterans during ski camp at Keystone Adaptive Center
Summit Daily News – Antonio Olivero (January 16, 2020) KEYSTONE — Margie Sinton has a problem with the word “retire.” To the Silverthorne resident, a Summit local since she and a friend decided to spend the winters as Rocky Mountain ski bums in 1974, the word equates to sitting [...]
$1 billion-plus in play for Colorado nonprofits; now you can use your tax refund to support us
In 2019, Colorado returned more than $1 billion in refunds to 1.9 million state taxpayers. In 2020, Coloradans who receive a state income tax refund will have a chance to donate all or some of it to a local nonprofit they trust like the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. Imagine [...]
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center youth snowsports program returns after lack of funding
Summit Daily News - Antonio Olivero (January 3, 2020) The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center — a Breckenridge-based nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding the potential of people with disabilities and special needs — announced Thursday that a sports program for local youths will take place this winter after a hiatus [...]
Veteran, public speaker and bestselling author Jason Redman takes adaptive ski lessons in Breckenridge
Summit Daily News - Taylor Sienkiewicz (January 2, 2020) Retired Navy SEAL Jason Redman traveled to Breckenridge with his family over the New Year’s holiday to work with an adaptive ski instructor at the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. Redman was wounded in Iraq in 2007 after taking a machine [...]
BOEC hosts Cleft Camp
The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center hosted its annual Cleft Camp this week, partnering with Children’s Hospital Colorado Springs for the first time. The three-day camp that ended Friday provides the hospital’s 10- to 18-year-old cleft clinic patients with the chance to take part in the center’s outdoors programming, including [...]
I’ve Gained Compassion & Empathy Enough to Outweigh Other Losses
The following is from a letter written to BOEC program staff from a course participant after the Challenge by Choice Adventure Retreat, June 9-14, 2019, for survivors of an injury to the brain: “Dear BOEC, Thank you for the scholarship. I could not have attended camp without it. This [...]
BOEC to Celebrate Completion of Headquarters & Logistics Center at Grand Opening Celebration & Open House
Breckenridge, Colo., June 10, 2019 – After a 3-year, $2 million capital campaign comes to a close, Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) looks to show off its new digs with a Grand Opening Celebration and Open House on Saturday, June 15th from 1 pm to 4 pm at 524 [...]
Alpine Fishing Adventures’ Randy Ford Talks About BOEC
My name is Randy Ford, owner of Alpine Fishing Adventures. Along with this donation of a guiding fishing charter, I wanted to share my story and thank you for your contribution to the BOEC by attending this event (Cinco de Mayo Celebration). Your contributions will do amazing things for a [...]
Patrick on Living With MS and Experiencing BOEC
Born and raised in Colorado and diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001, Patrick Tulley wasn't sure he would ever ski again. After learning about BOEC through the Rocky Mountain MS Center, Patrick found new life. He described his first day back on the mountain after his diagnosis like [...]
