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What is the Adaptive Spirit Annual Event?
The best telecom networking event in the industry! We unite Adaptive Spirit members with vendors and resources to enhance the outcome of their business, share best practices via high-level education panels, and generate a large portion of the operating budget for the U.S. Para Ski & Snowboard Team. The event raises funds to directly benefit the remarkable athleticism and competitive spirit of the team, allowing the organization to remain the top adaptive ski team in the world.
Does the U.S. Para Ski & Snowboard Team attend?
Absolutely! The U.S. Para Ski & Snowboard Team not only attends the event, but also actively participates in all of the weekend events. Throughout the event, attendees have an opportunity to meet and interact with these incredible athletes. Together, laughs are shared, stories are told and lasting friendships are created. The emotional bond formed between the athletes and Adaptive Spirit's participants is one of the main reasons this event continues to grow and flourish year after year.
What are the benefits of sponsorship?
The Annual Event's continued success depends on the generosity of its sponsors and thus we ensure that they have very high visibility for our attendees. In return for their kindness, sponsors are prominently featured in all event marketing materials, including the organization's website, event app and all event materials. In addition, the benefits of sponsorship can be seen in the faces of the athletes, the camaraderie and unity of the team, and the preeminent performance of the adaptive skiers and snowboarders.
If I'm a sponsor, or on a sponsor team, do I have to race?
The downhill race is an exciting part of the Adaptive Spirit event! On Saturday, participating racers, current team members and alumni compete side by side with recorded race times and recognition at the Podium Bash. While competitive, the races are also all in good fun—costumes and shenanigans are encouraged. Don’t ski or don't want to race? Don’t worry, 70% of attendees are spectators and that is just as fun as racing!
I don't ski... do I need a lift ticket?
What is a gondola pass?
Not a skier? You don't need a lift ticket. If you wish to join the group for on-mountain activities such as Friday lunch, you only need a gondola pass, which allows access to the gondolas - that go both up and down! Lift tickets and gondola passes are available at the Adaptive Spirit Headquarters at a substantial discount. 20% of attendees do not ski or snowboard - and there are lots of non-ski activities available in and around Vail.
What should I wear?
In Colorado, we call it "Mountain Casual." That means you wear whatever you feel comfortable wearing in a casual business setting. Jeans are welcome. Gentlemen, we suggest you leave the coat and tie at home. Ladies, anything you like is fine but high heels may be a liability when you go outside. We find it important to dress in layers so you can be comfortable in the ever-changing Colorado weather. We highly recommend that you wear comfortable shoes or boots that have slip-resistant soles.
Are payments to Adaptive Spirit tax deductible?
Adaptive Spirit is a Section 501 (c)(6) organization. As such, all monies paid to Adaptive Spirit are not recognized as a charitable donation but may be deducted as a business expense. Adaptive Spirit will donate net proceeds of the event to the United States Olympic Committee, which is classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Each company or individual should consult their tax advisor to determine the appropriate actions and consequences.
What is the connection between the telecom industry and the U.S. Para Ski & Snowboard Team?
The U.S. Para Ski & Snowboard Team is managed by and a part of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. Early on, several key cable industry executives recognized the need for the Paralympic Ski Team to secure additional funding to continue their operations and opportunities for adaptive athletes, and the idea for SkiTAM was born (and eventually Adaptive Spirit). In addition to securing funding for the team's operating budget, Adaptive Spirit is dedicated to increasing knowledge of the U.S. Para Ski & Snowboard Team and the Paralympics among key constituents. The intent is to attain more public support of the team while attracting additional corporate sponsorships and media exposure for these remarkable athletes.
How much of the funds raised at Adaptive Spirit go to the athletes?
After expenses are paid, all of the funds raised at the Annual Event directly benefit the U.S. Para Ski & Snowboard Team. Adaptive Spirit has raised more than $20 million for the ski team since the program began in 1996.
Besides attending, how can I get involved?
There are lots of ways to get involved with Adaptive Spirit. In fact, your involvement is the key to our success! Beyond attending the event and meeting and interacting with the athletes directly, there are volunteer opportunities during the event, volunteer and committee work that is done year-round, and a number of sponsorship and contribution opportunities for individuals and companies. Email us to learn more!