Oregon — The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) is celebrating a major milestone this winter: 10 years of providing adaptive ski and snowboard opportunities for children, youth, and adults who are blind or visually impaired.
NWABA’s eight-week Winter Ski & Snowboard Series officially begins Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Mt. Hood Meadows, in partnership with the resort’s Meadows Learning Center. The program is open to athletes of all ages and experience levels and is designed to eliminate financial barriers by covering the full cost of instruction, equipment rentals, lift passes, and transportation—expenses that can exceed $600 per participant each season.
Athletes receive one-on-one support from specially trained instructors using adaptive communication tools, including in-helmet two-way radios that promote independence while maintaining safety. Participants range from first-time skiers to advanced riders.
“We are incredibly grateful for the community, partners, and athletes who have made the past ten years possible,” said Billy Henry, founder and president of NWABA. “Living near the mountains gives our athletes the opportunity to experience the thrill of winter sports, something that has a lasting impact on their confidence and independence.”
As part of its continued growth, NWABA has expanded services into Idaho through a partnership with Boise Adapted Snowsport Education, offering skiing and snowboarding at Bogus Basin Ski Resort.
Over the past decade, NWABA’s Winter Sports Series has supported more than 300 blind and visually impaired athletes, with more than 30 athletes participating each season.
More information about NWABA’s winter programs—and upcoming spring activities including tandem biking and hiking—is available at www.nwaba.org.
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