Since then, I have also had the honor of volunteering as a Junior Ski Instructor, giving me the opportunity to give back to this amazing organization while serving kids of wounded warriors, like myself. Our family and countless other military families have been deeply blessed by the wonderful opportunities provided through WAS.

Likewise, Two Tops is striving to serve Veterans, their families, and individuals with disabilities in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, located on the grounds of the Whitetail Resort. Unless you have partaken in the events this organization has to offer, no one can imagine the bustle and action that takes place inside this cozy,  humble yurt. Two Tops was founded by Bill Dietrich and his wife Stacy Schmader in 2007. In the numerous times my family and I have participated in their Adaptive Sports Program, we have been touched by the consistent dedication and service Mr. Dietrich and his team provide. When I asked Mr. Dietrich why he included the family in his program for warriors, he commented, “I have always included the family… I don’t want to teach a husband how to ski if I am not teaching the wife and children. (Skiing) is something they can continue doing with their family until they are old and grey.”Along with the many volunteers and staff, he and Mrs. Schmader are always there serving and helping the many participants who walk through the doors of the yurt every day. This is an exciting time for Two Tops as the program has grown to hire staff and even provide workers compensation.

Ever since my family learned about adaptive sports, these activities have played a very large role in my father’s recovery process. Of course, every injured family member is unique and responds differently to certain activities, but for my Dad, who loves anything active, exhilarating, and outdoors, adaptive sports have provided him with just that. I have also witnessed how healing the whole experience has been for my family. There is nothing like getting away for a weekend to unwind and spend your time shredding down a hill, or canoeing on a lake, making memories with your family that (not trying to sound too cliché) will truly last forever. 

There are many resorts around the country that support organizations which provide adaptive sports. The adaptive sports programs I highlighted in my article are only two of the many marvelous organizations running today. If these organizations listed are not in your immediate area, a simple google search will more than likely provide information for locations that would be more manageable for your family. However, if one of the resorts I mentioned does interest you and is reasonable for your family, you will find contact information for each of the organizations below.  

So, whether you are looking for a fun family adventure during the bleak winter season or want to add more excitement to your summer, maybe adaptive sports are for you and your family.