Location: United States, New Zealand & Canada
Gig: Youth Development Charity
Website: sosoutreach.org

What is SOS?

SOS Outreach is a youth development charity that uses outdoor sports (snowboarding, skiing, rock climbing etc.) as a tool to mentor and inspire underserved youth. We strive to provide students with a positive environment and encourage them to engage in thought about their future and their role in their community. Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, ranging from homeless teen centers to the typical troubled youth we all once were.

How long has SOS been around?

16 years - and growing strong!

Where does SOS operate?

SOS Outreach operates at 40 mountain resorts in 9 states as well as in New Zealand and Canada.  We also now have summer programs operating in the White River National Forest. 

What are the goals of SOS?

While we hope they learn a thing or two about the sport, our main goal at SOS Outreach is that our students walk away with a new understanding of the SOS core values and tools to make positive decisions for healthy and successful lives. The foundation of SOS Outreach programs is the five core values; Courage, Discipline, Integrity, Wisdom and Compassion. Each day of SOS programs students learn the meaning of these values, how they can be cultivated, and examples of how to use them not only at SOS Outreach programs but also at home and at school. Teaching the SOS values in the context of an activity, such as snowboarding, provides a tangible way for young minds to understand each value.

 As a result of being involved in any SOS Outreach Program we hope that the student found a new sport to inspire confidence, a new relationship with the outdoors, a positive adult role model to connect with, a supportive group of friends, and mostly we hope they had a good time.  Also, each year a student is involved in SOS they have heighten commitment to community service, and we hope that they graduate the 5 year program as an active member in their community and with a strong understanding of the importance of giving back.

Anything else you’d like to add….

The success of the organization is due to the hundreds of volunteers and mentors that come together to give their time and positive attitudes. They provide each participant with a role model, and the necessary additional support and guidance for a successful experience. Our programs would also not be possible with out the support of our generous donors from individuals and companies, like 686.

To learn more about how to get involved or how you can join 686 in their support of SOS Outreach, check out our website at sosoutreach.org where you can meet our students through their videos, photos and blog posts.