Role of Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks Society in the funding ecosystem
Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks Society (ASSP) is a volunteer-driven charitable organization operating at Sun Peaks Resort in British Columbia. Its core mission is to make mountain and outdoor experiences accessible to individuals living with physical and/or visual disabilities and neurodivergence. ASSP delivers adaptive ski and snowboard lessons throughout the winter, as well as summer activities such as hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and mountain biking.
In addition to running these programs, ASSP plays a direct role in reducing financial barriers to participation. Through the Wulf Trotter Memorial Fund for ASSP students, the organization provides bursary-style funding that can be used toward lesson fees, lift passes needed to attend lessons, and adaptive equipment. Clear eligibility criteria are outlined, including being a member in good standing, demonstrating financial need and applying by a fixed annual deadline, and families are invited to apply by contacting the organization.
Financial assistance and external funding programs
ASSP also helps families navigate other sport funding options. Its Financial Assistance page highlights external programs such as KidSport (community-based grants for children to join a sport season), Canadian Tire Jumpstart (support for kids in financial need to participate in organized sport and recreation), and provincial Autism Funding in British Columbia. While these programs are administered by separate organizations, ASSP staff offer guidance, including help with paperwork and direct invoicing where applicable, to ensure participants can access the widest possible range of supports.
Publics served and overall impact
Since adopting its name in 2008, ASSP has relied on a large team of trained volunteer instructors to deliver hundreds of hours of adaptive lessons each season. Participants include local residents from Kamloops and Sun Peaks as well as visitors from across the province, Canada and abroad. By combining high-quality adaptive instruction with targeted financial assistance, the society lowers both physical and economic barriers, expanding access to inclusive outdoor sport experiences for children, youth and adults with disabilities.