Carving Paths to Joy: Anthony Lakes offers “Ski for the Health of It” to Baker County students
By Joe Hathaway on Monday, January 22nd, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER COUNTY — This winter season commemorates the 12th anniversary of Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort’s “Ski for the Health of It” program. The program aims to bring the fun and health benefits of skiing and snowboarding to Baker County students in an affordable and inclusive manner.
Generously supported by the Leo Adler Foundation and Community Bank, the Ski for the Health of It program has become a beacon of opportunity for youth in the Baker area. For a nominal fee of $80, students receive access to eight Fridays filled with skiing essentials, including lift tickets, rentals, lessons, and transportation.
“I love skiing so much and I love that this is offered to students!” said Peyton Bogner, a 6th grader at South Baker Intermediate School. “It’s fun being up there with my friends and the bus rides up there are fun too!”
Her brother Logan agrees, “It’s pretty awesome.”
The inception of Ski for the Health of It lies in the collaborative efforts of Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort’s management, sparked by the transition of Baker school district to a four-day week. Recognizing the potential impact on student access to winter sports, the program was conceived to provide an affordable outlet for Baker County youth. It specifically prioritizes students who have never experienced skiing or snowboarding or those who have not participated in the program before.
Anthony Lakes hosts approximately 200 students from North Powder and Baker each season. This collaborative effort ensures that young enthusiasts can embrace the thrill of winter sports in a supportive environment.
Erin Lair, Superintendent of the Baker School District, expressed gratitude for the enduring partnership with Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort. In a statement, Lair said, “We are so thankful for the opportunity to partner with Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort to coordinate affordable skiing and snowboarding for approximately 200 students in Baker County each winter. Through the generosity of the Leo Adler Foundation, Community Bank, and the George Roach Scholarship Program, students, many of whom are first-time skiers or snowboarders, receive transport, lessons, gear rentals, lift tickets, and trail passes over an 8-week period. We also couldn’t pull it off without our fantastic parent volunteers!”
