Who We Are
Founded in 2023, WAVES Idaho is a volunteer-led nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans through snow sports. We provide ski and snowboard instruction, equipment, training and support, and meaningful mountain experiences that build confidence, connection, and resilience.
WAVES serves veterans of all abilities — from experienced athletes, to those new to snow sports all the way to those needing adaptive instruction or equipment. Through supportive skilled coaching and community, we help all veterans experience the freedom, challenge, and camaraderie found on the mountain.
Our Team
WAVES is powered by an all-volunteer team of experienced snow sports instructors dedicated to serving the veteran community.
Our instructors are certified through the both the Professional Ski Instructors of America and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors and teach according to nationally recognized industry standards.
Our team supports veterans across a wide range of needs and experience levels, including first-time skiers and snowboarders, returning participants, able bodied experienced riders, and those who benefit from adaptive instruction or specialized equipment such as ski bikes, sit-skis, mono-skis, outriggers, and tether systems. To meet our leadership team, click HERE.
Our Priorities
Safety First
Safety is the foundation of every WAVES program.
All instruction and operations are guided by established PSIA-AASI industry standards, with careful consideration given to the physical and psychological safety of veterans, instructors, volunteers, and leadership.
Veteran Experience
We strive to create high-quality experiences that are welcoming, supportive, and meaningful for every veteran we serve.
Each participant is thoughtfully matched with instructors based on goals, experience level, physical and learning needs, and mountain conditions. Whether a veteran is learning for the first time, rebuilding confidence, or advancing existing skills, WAVES provides the support needed to participate safely and fully.
Instructor Experience
Our instructors are mission-driven volunteers who give their time, skill, and passion to serve the veteran community.
We want instructing with WAVES to be a meaningful and sustainable experience — one that benefits both veterans and the instructors who support them.
Mountain Partnerships
WAVES partners with resorts across southern Idaho to provide safe, professional, and impactful snow sport opportunities for veterans.
As a guest organization, we are committed to operating in a way that supports resort safety, reflects positively on our partners, and creates events they are proud to host.
Our Vision
To make life-changing snow sport experiences accessible to all veterans across the Pacific Northwest.
“On top of the mountain is where everything makes sense.” — Unknown