Fueling Dreams on Snow
The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation’s Mission to Empower Athletes
Photo Courtesy of The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation Lauren Macuga skis during the Women’s World Cup Downhill at the Stifel Birds of Prey on December 14, 2024 in Beaver Creek, Colorado.
When the world tunes in every four years to watch Team USA’s skiers and snowboarders defy gravity and chase Olympic glory, few realize the immense effort it takes to get them there. Behind the breathtaking runs and podium moments is the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation, the fundraising arm that ensures America’s top winter athletes have the resources they need to compete at the highest level, and to thrive beyond their athletic careers.“The biggest thing people don’t understand about Olympic sport is that we don’t receive any government funding,” says Trisha Worthington, chief revenue and philanthropic officer for the foundation. “Our athletes are supported entirely by generous Americans and corporations. Every dollar truly makes an impact.”
The foundation currently supports more than 240 athletes across 10 sports, from alpine skiing and cross-country to freestyle, freeski, para snowboarding, ski jumping and more. With the Winter Olympics in Italy taking place Feb. 6-22, 2026, its work is more critical than ever.
Supporting Athletes On and Off the Snow
The foundation’s mission extends well beyond training camps and competition travel. Worthington explains that funds raised cover essential performance needs—world-class coaching, sports science, equipment and medical care. Just as important are the resources athletes need once they step off the snow.
“We offer scholarships, career programs and internships so athletes can prepare for life after sport,” she says. “Our partners, like STIFL and iFIT, have created internship opportunities that give athletes real-world experience while respecting their training schedules. Donors themselves often step in to mentor or connect athletes with opportunities. It’s invaluable, because these athletes are retiring at a very young age, often before 30, and need a springboard into their next chapter.”
This holistic support is rare in Olympic sports. “Other federations don’t support their athletes at this level,” Worthington notes. “We’re proud that skiing and snowboarding has created such a strong model of athlete care.”
Photo Courtesy of The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation 2024 Denver Snow Ball event
The Power of Community
Fundraising events are the lifeblood of the foundation’s outreach, and Colorado plays an outsize role. On Nov. 12, the second annual Denver Snow Ball—spearheaded by longtime supporter Stanton Dodge—took place at The Dome at AMG in Greenwood Village. The evening featured athlete panels, organizational leadership and a celebration of the sport’s culture.
“These events are our greatest outreach tool,” says Worthington. “They allow us to bring in people who may not already be engaged, give them direct access to athletes, and let them feel the energy of the sport.”
The foundation also connects with fans at grassroots events across the country. With more than 400 clubs and 40,000 members nationwide, the U.S. Ski & Snowboard system serves not just as a pipeline for elite athletes, but also as the governing body setting rules, sanctioning competitions, and shaping the future of the sport.
This winter, Colorado fans have plenty of chances to cheer on Team USA. The state will host three alpine World Cups, as well as freeski and snowboard competitions. Para snowboarding will also be on display in Steamboat Springs in February. “It’s an incredible opportunity to see our athletes up close before they head to the Olympics,” Worthington says.
Photo Courtesy of The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation Nick Goepper, Alex Ferreira and Matt Labaugh on the podium at the 2025 Toyota U.S. Grand Prix in Aspen
Looking Ahead
With the impending Olympics, the foundation sees a unique chance to expand its reach. “In an Olympic year, the exposure increases dramatically,” says Worthington. “We have an opportunity to raise more money, tell our story, and engage more donors than ever.”
The organization is preparing to launch an endowment campaign this December, starting with its board. The goal: to create sustainable support not only for today’s elite athletes but also for the next generation rising through America’s ski and snowboard clubs.
A Legacy of Giving
For many donors, supporting the foundation is about more than sport—it’s also about tradition. “Skiing and snowboarding are multigenerational family sports,” Worthington reflects. “We’ve found that giving often becomes a family tradition too. People see our athletes setting ambitious goals and representing the USA on the world stage, and they want to be part of that story.”
Her message to Coloradans is simple: “Americans send Americans to the Olympics. Without government funding, it’s up to all of us. Whether you give $50 or $50,000, every dollar helps an athlete pursue their dream.”
As the snow begins to fall and anticipation builds for another Olympic season, the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Foundation stands as the quiet force behind the speed, style and strength that inspire us all.
