Getting Outside, Growing Inside

Big Sky Youth Empowerment Project Gathers Community Support

By Lucia Stewart, 5-04-07

Giving youth an opportunity to nurture confidence and healthy friendships while running wild and free in the out-of-doors can provide a life-changing experience. It’s an opportunity that all Montana youth should be granted in life, though some aren’t.

The Big Sky Youth Empowerment Project began in 2002 offering disadvantaged youth an opportunity to snowboard with a small group of kids and role models.

The now six-year-old program based in Bozeman has changed 180 disadvantaged teenagers life by providing the ability to snowboard as well as fly-fish, whitewater raft and horseback ride. One of the unique aspects of BYEP is that following graduation, kids keep their gear allowing them to continue to get outside and advance healthy relationships.

The BYEP Spring Run-Off Fundraiser — cause it can’t happen without community support — will take place at the Emerson Art and Cultural Center at 6 p.m. A live and silent auction with over $50,000 in auction items, a delectable dinner and a grand community gathering will accompany the $30 ticket.

Through mentorship, group workshops and outdoor pursuits, BYEP kids have an exceptional chance to learn about themselves, leadership and what’s its like to have fun outdoors with a healthy community of friends — a priceless value in anyone’s life.

“The kids in Bozeman look up and see the mountains, but many do not have access to them,” said Pete MacFadyen, Executive Director and Founder of BYEP. “When some kids are worried about basic needs, skiing is not high on the list. All humans need to have fun and it’s the community’s responsibility to provide that opportunity.”

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