Silver Star Mountain Resort celebrates the beginning of the 2011/12 ski season with the third annual Skiers Ball on Nov. 26, a fundraiser for Silver Star Adaptive Snow Sports (SSASS).
“Silver Star Mountain and all their locals are very supportive of the whole program and all the proceeds of the event will go directly to the disabled skiers,” said Britta Gretzmacher, SSASS coach and race team coordinator.
According to Gretzmacher, the program is extremely active, with more than 40 regular students, 12 para alpine racers and the inclusion of Special Olympic athletes.
“We are volunteer- based and the society provides the equipment for the participants and supports travel cost to races throughout B.C. Our race team is growing and some of them need custom-made sit skis,” she said. “It is very rewarding to see children and adults, who have a variety of physical and mental challenges, in the program having the opportunity to get out in the fresh air and enjoy the mountain along with the rest of the community.
“Some participants learn, or relearn after an injury, to ski and are then able to continue to ski with their families and friends.”
Karen Truesdale, with the ball’s organizing committee, said the fundraising goal for this event is more than $10,000.
“We were able to get some amazing silent auction items, which is the main source of income,” she said. “Twin Anchors donated a houseboat, Sparkling Hill a two-day package, plus many other items.”
This is becoming the social event of the year at the Star, a great start for the skiers’ community to come together at the beginning of the season, enjoying great food, dancing, entertainment and all for a good cause. Tickets are $80 per person, which includes a tax-deductible donation of $20, going directly to SSASS.
To order tickets, please call Diane at 250-542-0224 or visit the Silver Star administration front desk, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For more information on SSASS visit www.ssass.bc.ca or call 250-260-3737.
