Why Give

The beauty of the four seasons and the abundance of recreational opportunities that the woods, water and communities have to offer are why many have chosen to call northern Michigan “home.” Some live, work and play here while others are seasonal residents and visitors, but all are drawn to this area because of recreation and leisure activities combined with a strong sense of community. It’s about making lifetime memories with friends and family while experiencing everything northern Michigan has to offer.

Now imagine for a moment that you did not have access to such opportunities. A lake that you can see from the shore but will never experience by boat; trails you have heard about but will never explore on a bike or hike; rivers that you can enjoy from the riverbank but never by kayak; ski hills that you can admire from a distance but will never feel the exhilaration of skiing down. It would be like watching life happen as you sit on the sidelines. This is what it is like for many adults and children living with disabilities. Challenge Mountain is about changing this reality through year-round adaptive recreation programs and activities that enrich lives and empower individuals living with disabilities so they can become active players in the game of life.

Participating in community activities is an important part of being and feeling a part of a community. Experiencing cultural and social outings with family and friends enriches lives and brings people together. Many people enjoy activities such as concerts in the park, the local farmers market, sightseeing, or just a night out at a favorite restaurant. It is not just the event that makes the experience, it is the opportunity to share these experiences with family and friends.

To help ensure individuals living with disabilities have these opportunities, Challenge Mountain focuses on removing barriers and supporting social inclusion through recreation that takes place on a regular basis. All programming is centered on having fun, making and sustaining friendships, building confidence and independence and most importantly fostering positive and hopeful expectations for living life with a disability.

Join Challenge Mountain in our effort to connect people with opportunities that change lives.