Empowering Youth Through Snowboarding

Empowering Youth Through Snowboarding

In the heart of Colorado lies a unique initiative committed to transforming lives through the exhilarating sport of snowboarding. Unified Shredders is not just a program; it's a movement that empowers underserved youth, equipping them with the skills and confidence to carve their paths both on and off the slopes. Founded with a passion for both snowboarding and community service, Unified Shredders is dedicated to breaking down barriers and making the sport accessible to all youth, regardless of their background or circumstances. Our mission is provide snowboarding lessons and mentorship programs to youth from Denver and Grand County, offering them an inclusive and supportive space to learn, grow, and thrive.

The Vision

Our vision and clear and compelling: to create a future where every young person has the opportunity to experience the joy, freedom, and personal growth that comes from outdoor recreation. Snowboarding, with its blend of physical challenge and mental clarity, serves as a powerful vehicle for developing essential life skills such as resilience, self-efficacy, and confidence. Through our programs, we aim to foster these qualities in our participants, helping them to build a solid foundation for future success.

The Impact

Unified Shredders runs a comprehensive winter program that spans six weeks, providing one day of snowboarding each week. During these sessions, participants not only learn to snowboard but also engage in mentorship activities designed to enhance their self-efficacy and personal growth. By partnering with certified instructors and experiences mentors, we ensure that our participants receive top-notch training and support. We offer year-round programming that includes community trips and skill-building workshops during the summer. These activities expose participants to diverse cultural experiences and equip them with valuable life skills such as leadership, self-advocacy, and environmental stewardship.

Addressing Barriers

We recognize that there are significant barriers that prevent many youth from accessing outdoor recreation, especially snowboarding. The cost of equipment, lack of transportation, and absence of supportive communities are just a few of the challenges that many young people face. Unified Shredders is resolute in our mission to counteract these barriers. We provide all necessary gear free of charge, cover transportation expenses, and create a supportive community where every participant feels valued and included. Our program specifically targets underserved youth including low-income families, BIPOC communities, LGBTQIA+ youth, and those with a history of trauma. By prioritizing these groups, we strive to make snowboarding an inclusive and equitable sport.

The Power of Mentorship

At the heart of Unified Shredders is our mentorship program. We believe that mentorship is crucial in helping youth navigate the challenges of adolescence and build a positive future. Our mentors are not just instructors; they are role models who provide ongoing support, guidance, and encouragement. Through regular interactions and personalized attention, mentors help participants set goals, overcome obstacles, and celebrate their achievements.

Educational and Economic Exposure

Unified Shredders is committed to integrating academic learning and career exploration into our programs. Participants have the opportunity to learn about the environmental impact of outdoor activities and the importance of conservation. Our founder, a Leave No Trace Master Educator, ensures that principles of environmental stewardship are embedded throughout our programming. We expose youth to the economic opportunities within the snowboarding and outdoor recreation industry. From mountain operations to retail and hospitality, participants learn about various career paths and the benefits they offer. By highlighting these opportunities, we aim to inspire youth to pursue careers in the outdoor industry and contribute to its growth and sustainability.

Community Building

Community building is a core value of Unified Shredders. We foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among our participants, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the program. By bridging cultural divides and bringing together youth from different backgrounds, we promote positive youth empowerment and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

The Call To Action

This winter, we aim to support 12 students, providing them with six days of snowboarding access. To achieve this goal, we need your help. Your donations will go directly towards covering the cost of equipment, transportation, mentorship, and program activities. By supporting Unified Shredders, you are not just funding a snowboarding program; you are investing in the future of our youth. You are helping to build their confidence, resilience, and leadership skills, and you are providing them with opportunities that can change their lives forever.