How did you start the Youth Initiative Project?

I was asked as a professional athlete to go into schools about 20 years ago and be a mentor to kids, and that organically grew into a program of school presentations and experiential opportunities beyond the classroom. In 2013, I officially became a nonprofit, so now I’m able to do fundraisers and provide financial support for youth outreach.

What has been the proudest moment of your career?

In October, I was inducted into the Colorado Snow Sports Hall of Fame under the combined categories of Sport Builder and Athlete. They acknowledged both my impact as the longest-running athlete in the Warren Miller franchise (28 years), as well as my outreach work, which has affected over 100,000 students. It was my opportunity to turn around and say thank you to both Colorado and the ski industry, as well as all the people who’ve helped me build the Youth Initiative Project.

Where is your favorite place to ski in Colorado?

I live in Beaver Creek—I get to walk right out the back door, jump on the gondola at the Westin, and head up. Beaver Creek is my backyard.