UPDATE 7/14/25: I can't express enough gratitude for the overwhelming support thus far to get to the initial $1,500 goal. While there is no fundraising requirement for runners, the more we raise, the more VT Adaptive can facilitate people with disabilities to have potentially life changing experiences in the outdoors. Thank you for everyone donating and continuing to support us and this community!
Hello family and friends,
I am running the Vermont 100 Endurance Race on July 19 to accomplish two big goals of mine - to complete the distance for the first time and to raise money for Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports!
I volunteered for VT Adaptive in my 20s at Sugarbush ski area as I was drawn to its mission and community. This organization provides volunteer personnel, equipment, and financial support for people with disabilities to get to enjoy outdoor recreation. At the time, I gave snowboard lessons to children with behvaioral disabilities and had the opportunity to accompany a competitive ski-racer as she learned to sit-ski after losing use of her legs to a rare spinal cord disease. Coincidentally, VT100 is the largest annual fundraiser for VT Adaptive.
I have participated in VT 100 as training partner and crew for my husband, Alex, for several years. When we met, it was clear he was committed to this race as a tradition each year and it was easy to understand why - aside from the whole 100 miles thing!
There is something deeply moving at the VT100 event with its inclusivity and its focus on generosity to people with like-minded interests who happen to require assistance from VT Adaptive to do things that we all love. Of course it goes without saying, it is also inspiring to watch runners persist through the endless highs and lows of testing their body for such a long distance.
For the first few years being a part of the VT100, I maintained the belief that Alex and the other finishers are super human, and that I was not capable of taking on such an enormous feat. Perhaps seeing it enough times, and certainly hearing Alex’s abundant confidence in me year after year, my curiousity turned into belief and determination that I could do this, too. While it’s been a humbling journey to prepare and qualify for this race, Alex has consistently stuck with me each step of the way, literally. Now, I’m excited (and naturally a bit nervous) to be toeing the line with him! As Alex and I prepare to take this on together, I appreciate any and all support.
Please consider donating what you can to help me reach my goal and help Vermont Adaptive meet their goal too!
Thank you!
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.