"to give up one's very self - to think only of others - how to bring the greatest happiness to others — that is the true meaning of Christmas" - The American magazine (1889)
One of the best feelings in the world is to give back during the holidays. As skiers and snowboarders, we should be very thankful this time of the year, especially while ripping around the slopes and enjoying the fruits that mother nature has so generously provided us with. Here are a few ways to start the new year with a smile on your face, knowing that you are bringing great happiness to those who are less fortunate.
Smith Sarah Burke I/OS goggle - Pick up a new pair of goggles for a lovely lady in your life and give back!
Smith has created a limited run I/OS goggle to support the Sarah Burke Foundation and pay tribute to everything that Sarah meant to the Smith Family. 100% of the proceeds go to Sarah's Foundation supporting the St. Judes Children's Hospital as well as help young skiers with opportunities (www.sarahburkefoundation.com). More information about these goggles can be found at www.smithoptics.com/celebratesarah.
Burton Chill Foundation - Changing lives through snowboarding.
From their website, "The mission of the Chill Foundation is to provide opportunities for at-risk and underserved youth to build self-esteem and life skills through boardsports. Each year, we take about 75-100 youth from each of our sites to the slopes. We provide them with everything they need to learn to ride: lift tickets, lessons, transportation, and head-to-toe gear. We use snowboarding to motivate youth to accomplish goals they never thought they could, while teaching them some of the most important lessons in life about patience, persistence, responsibility, courage, respect, and pride – our weekly themes within the program. This winter alone, Chill will work with over 1,000 youth in cities across North America, Sydney (Australia), and Innsbruck (Austria)." Visit their website at www.chill.org or click here to make a donation.
Utah Food Bank - Donate food, time, or money to keep bellies full during the holidays.
From their website, "The holiday season often brings thoughts of traditional meals, gifts and special memories shared with loved ones. But for thousands of Utahns, this season is difficult to bear as it becomes challenging for them to meet even the basic needs. Please help by donating this holiday season. Whether its a donation of food, time or money, all methods help us provide food to low-income Utahns statewide." Visit their website at www.utahfoodbank.org for more information on how to donate, get involved, or even host your own food drive!
Have a safe and happy holiday!
<3 Park Rat Tom
