NIMSEF continues to grow

SANDPOINT — Thanks to a host of supporters and volunteers, North Idaho Mountain Sports Education Fund raised more than $27,000, which allowed the group to sponsor 70 children.

NIMSEF exists to provide all the children of our community an opportunity to participate in skiing/snowboarding. The program not only provides the child with a lifelong activity, but it gives the child a sense of belonging, accomplishment, and pride.

“I have met these children personally and the look of joy on their faces when they received their season ski pass was incredible,” said NIMSEF president Jeff Rouleau. “It confirmed the validity of this program. Several parents have contacted me to relate how much it means to their kids.”

People come from all over to enjoy North Idaho’s world-class outdoor activities. However, while tourists and those involved in the local ski industry clearly understand the joy that snow sports offer, many in the shadows of the mountain have no idea.

A large percentage of the children growing up with Schweitzer Mountain Resort in their backyard never experience the joy and freedom the slopes provide. These kids, whose families are the hard-working backbone of the community, never experience what many of us take for granted.

Skiing/Snowboarding is simply too expensive for many North Idaho families.

NIMSEF was founded to give children like this more than just one day on the mountain. NIMSEF is a nonprofit organization recognized under IRS code 501c3. (EIN#: 27-3242820), and governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who receives zero compensation. Our expenses are minimal, allowing the majority of donations to directly benefit the children we sponsor.

“With two years under our belt, we are seeing incredible success and I am confident we can do even more this year,” said Rouleau, who set a goal of 80 kids this year. “While accomplishing this it will take a lot more money, I’m confident we can do it. Just think of how many children’s lives maybe can be changed.”

The NIMSEF program not only teaches skiing/snowboarding, but engages the children, allowing them to work for a portion of their tuition and participate in fund raising. We believe this will help the children value their gift, build their work ethic and learn to give back to others.

The program created by Schweitzer puts the children in groups of similar age and ability, and the group stays with the same coach for the entire program (all coaches are certified instructors). This all-day program takes place on either Saturday or Sunday, but the pass and equipment rental are valid all season.

Any donations you wish to give to this worthy cause are greatly appreciated and will help North Idaho children realize the dream of being a part of something special. NIMSEF thanks all of the community for continued support.

If you haven’t had the chance to donate but would like to in the future, please send donations to NIMSEF, Inc. at P.O. Box 170, Ponderay, ID, 83852.

For an application, or for more information, visit “www.nimsef.com,” or call (208) 267-7010.