“He didn’t see my disability as a problem…it was just me.”
- Emily, STARS Participant
“I had an amazing experience with skiing, thanks to Justin, my ski instructor! He made it really fun and took me on adventures that I thought I would never experience. And the best thing was we both like to go fast! He didn’t see my disability as a problem…I was just me.”
“I was struggling for years until I found ski therapy.”
“I wanted to thank everyone involved for making this past week a fun, exciting and unforgettable trip. I was struggling for years until I found ski therapy. I am at my best when I am around Veterans and doing therapy that works. You all make it so memorable as all the staff is professional, caring, and go above and beyond to make sure all Veterans are getting the most out of the trip. Keep up the amazing work as your impact is amazing.”
-Michael, STARS Veteran Participant
“I don’t think Theo would be able to particiapte in most of the activities if it were not for the generous scholarships and wonderful staff.”
-Jolene, Participant’s Mother
“Theo has been involved with STARS for several years now. Theo is bilaterally deaf and also has autism. He participates in the summer camp and also skiing in the winter. I feel like we are all family and the fact that most of the staff stays the same is fantastic as it keeps routine and familiarity for Theo, which is key for him. I do not think that Theo would be able to participate in most of the activities if it were not for the generous scholarships and the wonderful staff. He gets to do things that he probably wouldn’t get to do if not for STARS.
In the time that he has been with STARS, Theo has gone from skiing with tethers, to skiing on his own. He has increased his stamina from 1 hour when he started to almost all 3 hours!! I got to ski with him a little last year and it was so much fun and I don’t think that would have happened if not for you. His instructor last year has ASL as a second language which is AMAZING as she was able to communicate with Theo in a whole new way and not everyone can do that! And the summer program is amazing as he has kayaked, gone horseback riding, biking, and hiking! And he has made so many friends, staff and fellow participants alike. It is nice being in a group where no one stares at you or makes fun of you. He has an amazing time with everyone and has truly grown personally, physically because of all of you. I truly appreciate the experiences that Theo has been able to have because of STARS!
We are truly grateful and blessed for everyone involved in STARS!!”
— Paul, STARS Veteran Participant