The return of the snow means the return of the vertical challenge for the popular Ski to Defeat ALS fundraiser at Mt. Hood Meadows this April.

Last year’s thin snow cover forced organizers to drop the day-long vertical challenge, although the festivities were still plenty lively and well-supported. In spite of the lack of snow participants still managed to raise over $75,000 to fight amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Ski to Defeat ALS, propelled into motion by the late, great Mt. Hood skier Fred Noble, honors Noble and others with ALS with a day-long vertical feet challenge, followed by an awards party with refreshments and prizes. Participants raise money for ALS research and care, and awards go out to top fundraisers as well as the top vertical feet competitors.

It adds up to a fun community event on the mountain, for a good cause. Financial support for Ski to Defeat ALS goes to the following programs and efforts:

• Funding public policy and research efforts
• On-staff Care Services Coordinators who offer individual support and home visits for people living with ALS
• Partnerships in ALS multidisciplinary centers and clinics.
• A Medical Equipment Loan Program that shares equipment to aid in daily living activities and with mobility when insurance is lacking or taking too long.
• An Augmentative Communication and Assistive Technology Program to support people living with ALS in their communication and technology needs.
• A Caregiver Support Program to relieve stress and “burnout” which includes family caregiver support groups, Care Connections guidance, In-Home Caregiving financial support and Respite Care grants.
• A Monthly Support Group Program for people living with ALS to share best practices and experiences with peers.
• Support and age-appropriate resources for children who have ALS in their families.

You can sign up to create or join a team here.

Here are a few photos from Randy Boverman from last year’s Ski to Defeat ALS:

{igallery id=1374|cid=52|pid=2|type=category|children=0|addlinks=0|tags=|limit=0}

Last modified: January 7, 2016