Ian Crawford (centre), chair of the Pass Powderkeg Ski Society, engages with attendees at the annual Ski Swap.
Nicholas L. M. Allen
Nov 6, 2024
Annual event raises funds for youth programs, food initiatives, and community access to winter sports
Hundreds of community members turned out for the annual Ski Swap, held Nov. 1-2, at the MDM Building in Bellevue. With booked time slots keeping attendance organized, the event aimed to raise funds for the Pass Powderkeg Ski Society and KidSport Crowsnest Pass, while also promoting community access to affordable ski equipment.
Ian Crawford, chair of the Pass Powderkeg (PPK) Ski Society, shared how the Ski Swap serves as the society’s primary fundraiser, typically bringing in $5,000-$6,000.
“That money allows us to support programs that enhance the experience for users at PPK and helps make it easier for PPK to operate,” said Crawford, “It’s our main event, alongside a few smaller fundraising barbecues.”
This year, Alpenland took charge of consignments and trade-ins, offering locals options to either receive store credit or consign gear. Consignors were able to settle their sales at the event’s end on Saturday, with a 15 per cent commission supporting the ski society.
Attendees were also encouraged to visit the Crowsnest Nordic Club’s “Kids Loan Program” station, where young skiers could access cross-country ski equipment for the season. Available by appointment, the program prioritizes club members and those in ski programs, with additional registration fees and deposits required.
The funds raised from the Ski Swap play a critical role in supporting several key initiatives, such as the “PPK Feeds” program.
“A need was identified two years ago — local youth coming to the hill without food or money to buy snacks,” Crawford explained, “So we fund a healthy snack basket, available stigma-free, for kids who may not have something to eat.”
In addition to food support, the Ski Society also sponsors a scholarship program, funding training for local youth interested in becoming Level 1 ski or snowboard instructors. Last year, the society fully covered tuition for three young individuals to contribute to the ski community as instructors.
This year, the “Friends of PPK” initiative also saw growth. For a $10 fee, community members could show support by becoming “Friends,” a gesture that not only funds programs but also brings potential volunteers into the society’s ranks.
Crawford highlighted a new lending library in development with KidSport Crowsnest Pass to reduce the financial barriers to skiing.
“We’re working on grant applications to fund youth-sized equipment that will be available to loan for an entire season,” he said, “Our aim is to make skiing accessible to families who qualify for KidSport support.”
The Ski Society also offers programs like a weekly seniors’ social skiing hour and the “No Pressure Race Series,” a low-stakes event aimed at helping skiers practice in a relaxed environment.
“We bring in a professional coach to give free tips, but it’s not about competing against others. It’s a fun, timed course for people to improve at their own pace,” Crawford shared.
In light of the event’s success, attendance limits implemented during the pandemic remain in place, ensuring the event runs smoothly. Crawford noted that over 250 people attended Friday’s session alone, thanks to the booking system, which allowed volunteers to provide personalized assistance with fitting boots and selecting equipment.
The Ski Swap continues to support local skiing programs and fosters accessibility to winter sports, helping PPK extend its impact in the Crowsnest Pass community.
