Northland Adaptive Recreation, formerly known as Courage Kenny Northland, just wrapped up there ski/snowboard program on the Iron Range at Giants Ridge. The program helps provide people of all abilities to enjoy winter skiing and snowboarding with the help of volunteers.

Mark Hanna is the program specialist and volunteer coordinator with the northland adaptive recreation program. He said they have over 25 community volunteers that are part of the program. Also they are at different skiing ability levels.

“We’re just excited to be back here sliding on the snow. We have some sit skiers. We have some stand up skiers,” Hanna said. “People who are using adaptive equipment and just getting out in the fresh air, making some turns.”

Hanna also said they offer fun and engaging opportunities for volunteers and participants all year round.

“It’s all seasonally based. So in the winter we do downhill skiing, Nordic skiing, curling. In the summer we do kayaking and cycling. We have activities for everybody of all abilities and they are all staffed with volunteers,” Hanna said. “So if you have a passion, an outdoor recreation, whatever the activity, feel free to contact North Adaptive Rec and just share your skills with others and have a great time doing it.”

While the program is looking for new volunteers, some volunteers have been helping with the Northland Adaptive Recreation for 10 or 15 years. Brian Tolley, a long-time volunteer, said the program means a lot to his family. He was also skiing with Nicole, visiting from Canada..

“Even like my daughters grew up skiing with this program. My oldest daughter is volunteering this year actually with the program,” Tolley said. “We got Nicole coming down here from Fort Frances. She’s getting out skiing again and having lots of fun.”

Shelley Aho, the site coordinator for the Northland Adaptive Recreation ski and snowboard program, said they are always welcoming new volunteers. In fact, volunteers can be as young as 16 years old to sign up and help.

“We do have volunteers in boots on the ground, not even on skis. So if you’re interested in participating and donating your time and working with a wonderful group of volunteers and participants, it’s a great opportunity.”

For more information about the Northland Adaptive Recreation ski and snowboard program you can read more www.northlandadaptive.org. Also for other stories about skiing you can read more here.