UPDATE TIME!!! (July 8, 2022)
The race is just a week away and I'm a bit shy of my baseline fundraising goal of $1500, and even further from my personal lofty goal of $3500. Things have been a bit all over the place, and for a number of reasons/factors I will be running the 100K instead of the 100miler this year. So, how cool would it be to really excel in my fundraising efforts to make up for the (slightly) diminished distance?! If you could share this page with anyone you think might donate to this amazing cause, I'd greatly appreciate it.
You'd be supporting me, a trans/non-binary athlete, raise money for an organization that is creatively breaking down barriers to sport for folks with disabilities. In the current state of the world, making that donation would truly speak VOLUMES to multiple marginalized communities. Thanks for considering helping me reach my goal!
xo-scout
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WOW!!!
Back in 2016 when I had been living in VT/NH for about a year, I decided I would run the Vermont 100. When I found out that I could run the race AND raise money for Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, I signed up to be on the first year of Team Run 2 Empower. I was a little nervous about trying to raise money whilst being a bit of a newcomer to the region, but friends and family from far and wide really showed up and helped me meet my goals. There were even some art sales and bake sales in the mix, just to keep it interesting. (who knows what this year will bring!!)
I ran for Team Run 2 Empower once again in 2017, but sadly my race didn't go according to plan and I was pulled by medical at my second check in at Camp 10 Bear, and that was that. However, despite the disappointment of not meeting my running goal, I still felt great knowing that I had successfully raised more than $1500 for VASS. I ended up moving from VT back to my home state of Arizona and had the privilege of working as a race director out there, seeing folx take on distances they never thought they could, and welcoming them across the finish line with smiles, hugs, and high fives.
Now I'm back in Vermont, and I am absolutely honored to have been accepted onto the 2022 Team Run 2 Empower.
Everyone has their own reason for running. For me, running is a form of prayer, of meditation, of putting positive energy out into the world. When I can add a direct purpose, a tangible way of having something that gives me so much joy give back to the world, I can’t pass up that opportunity. Specifically, the work that Vermont Adaptive does is vital to creating access to outdoor adventure for all bodies, and that is work I would like to see continue to thrive. I’ve successfully raised funds for TR2E twice, and can't wait to see what happens this year.
I have been training and will continue to train until July, through all manner of weather and the various highs and lows. On the days when it feels super tough, I'll remember that I'm running with purpose, and that the money I raise will help Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports have the resources they need to foster, create, and innovate adaptations for those who would otherwise be turned away from sports and outdoor recreation. VASS sees opportunity where others may see an impossible feat. Their programs are offered to people of all ages, with a variety of disabilities. Programs include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and Nordic in the winter; and sailing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more in the warmer months.
Please consider donating what you can to help me reach my goal and help Vermont Adaptive meet their goal too!
With sincerest gratitude and love
-scout
2022 Vermont 100 Team Run 2 Empower member
MORE INFO:
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that empowers people of all disabilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay. In addition to sports, year round programming options integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional/behavioral disabilities. The organization believes sports and recreation provide a physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting self-confidence and independence in an individual.
With nearly 400 active volunteer instructors, plus generous partners and sponsors, and an amazing base of clients and friends, Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports has been at the forefront of sports and recreation for those with disabilities in New England for over 30 years. Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities. We promote independence and further equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational activities.
The VT 100 is one of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports biggest fund raisers every year. For more information about Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports: www.vermontadaptive.org.