All photos by Taylor Mckenzie Gerlach (@taylormckenzie_photo on Instagram)
Six Weeks of Progress and Confidence
Ask a Y.E.T.I. student about their favorite adventure, and snowboarding at Stevens Pass is quickly becoming a top pick thanks to an awesome partnership with the Chill Foundation.
This season, seven Y.E.T.I. students went to Stevens Pass every week for six weeks, stepping outside their comfort zones, learning new skills, and falling in love with snow sports. Their routine was simple but packed: after-school pickup by Y.E.T.I., a gear stop in Monroe, then straight to the mountain. Whether strapping in for the first time or perfecting their turns, each session built confidence. By the time Y.E.T.I. dropped them off at midnight, they were exhausted but already counting down the days until next week.
Student Spotlight: Mario from Evergreen High
One student who stood out this season? Mario from Evergreen High’s Y.E.T.I. Club. He had little experience snowboarding but picked it up fast, pushing himself to improve every week. His dedication paid off. Out of 90 applicants, he was one of just six students chosen for the Seattle Chill Explore Program.
Through Chill Explore, Mario spent a full day at Stevens Pass, receiving advanced coaching, learning about careers in snow sports, and best of all, receiving his own snowboard setup.
Friendship and Growth on the Mountain
Cat Leonowicz, Y.E.T.I.’s High School Program Coordinator, saw that Mario and two other boys, who were from different parts of the Seattle area, formed a strong bond. “They ended up being a pretty inseparable group of three on the mountain,” they said. “It was really encouraging to see them all support and hype each other up.”
“I’ve seen a light switch flip for Mario and so many of our students,” said Cat. “You can see it in their eyes. They just want to send it down the mountain. The excitement, the confidence, the friendships, it’s incredible.”
Breaking Down Barriers
For many, the cost of snow sports is a huge barrier. But thanks to Y.E.T.I. and Chill, more young people who never imagined themselves on a snowboard are already asking when they can go snowboarding again or try skiing.
We’re searching for ways to expand access to exclusive and expensive snow sports like skiing and snowboarding for our students next year and we need your support to make it possible. If you have connections or ideas that could help, we’d love to hear from you!
