Mikaela Shiffrin Supports Youth Ski Programs at Copper Mountain

Mikaela Shiffrin is skiing with a group of young girls at Copper Mountain, her eyes fixed on the slopes as she watches them glide past. The sound of snow crunching beneath skis and the chatter of excited kids fill the air. This is the kickoff event for ShareWinter's $1 million fundraising initiative, a program Shiffrin has partnered with to support youth ski and snowboard programs across the U.S.

The event, dubbed "The GOAT Gives Back," is an invite-only private ski day, and Shiffrin is here to make a difference. She's not just a professional skier; she's a role model, and her presence is met with adoration from the 40 young girls in attendance, all members of the elevateHER program. As she speaks to them in a packed conference room, her words are absorbed with reverence. "It's been really cool to see how raising money for ShareWinter helps impact kids like you to get outside and get into snow sports," she says, her passion for the cause evident.

ElevateHER, a Chaffee County-based organization, aims to foster self-worth and grit in young women through mentoring, outdoor adventure, and holistic wellness programs. The program's leadHERship initiative meets monthly during the school year and weekly over the summer, offering activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, and skiing. For 14-year-old Frankie, it's a welcoming space where she can meet people who share her interests. "In the fall, we mountain bike and rock climb. In the summer, we raft, and in the winter, we go skiing," she explains. Her friend Lucia Downing echoes the sentiment, highlighting that the group is a place where they feel supported and accepted by others who enjoy the same activities.

As Shiffrin signs autographs and takes photos with the girls, the excitement is palpable. ShareWinter's CEO, Constance Beverley, explains that the organization partners with youth programs nationwide to remove barriers to skiing and riding. It takes about $500 to support one child for a full season on snow, funding access to lessons, gear, lift tickets, and transportation. "Because it's a little bit of a ladies shred fest here, we thought it would be very fun to get to ski with, I don't know, the best Alpine skier of all-time!" Beverley says with a smile.

The Western Slope is home to numerous ski resorts, and initiatives like ShareWinter can make a significant difference in the lives of local youth. By providing access to snow sports, these programs can help build confidence, foster a sense of belonging on the slopes, and promote outdoor recreation. As Shiffrin skis with the girls, her presence serves as a reminder of the impact that role models can have on young lives. The sound of laughter and excitement fills the air as the girls take to the slopes, their faces aglow with joy.

Shiffrin's partnership with ShareWinter has already made a significant impact, helping to raise nearly $500,000 for the organization in 2025. The current $1 million fundraising initiative aims to support even more youth programs across the U.S. As the day comes to a close, Shiffrin reflects on the importance of giving back to the community. Her commitment to supporting the next generation of skiers and snowboarders is evident in everything she does, and this event is just one example of her dedication. The girls, now exhilarated from their time on the slopes, will carry the memory of this day with them, inspired by Shiffrin's passion and dedication to the sport.

The sun begins to set over Copper Mountain, casting a warm glow over the slopes. The girls, tired but happy, make their way off the mountain, their faces still flushed with excitement. Shiffrin watches them go, a look of satisfaction and fulfillment on her face. This is what it's all about – giving back, making a difference, and inspiring the next generation to take to the slopes.