Snow Sports for All

Devin with his snowboard

by Michael Caballero

SOUTH PORTLAND, ME — Snow in New England: some people love it; some people hate it. Either way, everyone has their opinions about the white stuff. Our SHI community members are no different, and they all have their own way of dealing with snow. During the winter months, most of our folks within the Specialized Housing community might see snow fall and think it’s the perfect time to stay inside, relax, and enjoy a nice mug of hot chocolate and a movie…and maybe some popcorn (after shoveling around the house, of course!). However, several of our SHI community members in our Maine houses see a fresh blanket of snow as an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors during this chilly time of year. After their mug of hot cocoa, these folks are thinking about the next time they can get out and take on the ski slopes.

In Maine, there is a program called Maine Adaptive Sports and Recreation . Since 1982, this group has been providing programming to individuals with disabilities, and they offer several recreational opportunities throughout the year. Over the winter months, they provide outdoor programming for individuals who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. With the help of staff and volunteers, Maine Adaptive is able to offer a truly unique experience. 

Ellen at home

The Maine Adaptive ski program has been a well-oiled machine for many years in Maine, and our house members in South Portland have been attending since we opened our first house there nearly 10 years ago. One of the veterans within our community is Ellen. She shared that she’s been part of the organization’s skiing program since she was a kid: “I think I was 12 when I first started skiing with Maine Adaptive. I like it because it’s fun, and the staff and volunteers are really nice and helpful.” When asked how it all works, she said, “You take a bus. I like the bus driver; his name is Bruce. He takes us to Shawny Peak or Sunday River, and from there, you are paired with a ski instructor. It’s usually all-day, and you get home around 5 or 5:30pm.” That is a long day and some might be tempted to nap on the way home, but not Ellen: “Hardly ever—no.” 

Alex with his snowboard

Ellen’s neighbor, Alex, enjoys the snowboarding program. Alex admitted that last week he was up at 5 am to start preparing for his early morning bus ride to the slopes. “I look around and appreciate nature when I’m there,” says Alex, and adds, “I like that they’re teaching me how to stop so I don’t break my knee.” When asked about the early morning commitment, Alex gets straight to the point: “Nah, I don’t mind it.”

Devin has been part of the snowboarding program since he moved into the house about 10 years ago. He remembered that it was his housemate, Ellen, who told him about the program, and he’s been hooked ever since: “When I moved into the house, Ellen was skiing and got me to join, so I started with snowboarding.” Devin said that he appreciates the environment around him and the staff who wear the red jackets and help when needed. When asked about any advice he has to offer folks who have yet to brave the slopes, he grins and says, “Don’t look down. Look in front of you, and keep up with the safety codes, watching for others.” That’s good advice, Devin, for those of us who may be the reason those codes are in place.

For more information about Maine Adaptive Sports and Recreation, go to https://www.maineadaptive.org/.