Keeping Recreation Accessible Through Every Season Article

Keeping Recreation Accessible Through Every Season

At the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, we believe Idaho’s outdoors are central to the way people live, connect, and thrive. From mountain trails and rivers to ski terrain and open spaces, recreation helps shape both Idaho’s identity and its future. That is why we continue to invest in opportunities and partnerships that help make Idaho a destination for world-class recreation while expanding access for people across the state.

We see that vision come to life through the work of our partners and initiatives like the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) and the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse. Together, they are helping athletes build confidence, community, and year-round connection to Idaho’s outdoors.

Winter can often create barriers to staying active and connected, but through programming at the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse, athletes can maintain momentum during the colder months while continuing to prepare for outdoor recreation opportunities across Idaho. Through programs like Nordic Club and FORGED Together, CAF athletes and Mission43 members come together for training, conditioning, and community-building throughout the winter season.

This work is made possible through partnerships with organizations like Bogus Basin Nordic Team, Boise Adaptive Snowsport Education (BASE), Bogus Basin, and the Boulder Mountain Tour, all working together to expand access to recreation across Idaho.

“Each season, we see that the impact extends far beyond recreation alone. These programs create spaces where folks can challenge themselves, build relationships, and continue pursuing goals regardless of season or circumstance,” said Andy Johnson, Director of the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse. “They also demonstrate what is possible when partners work together to make outdoor recreation more accessible and inclusive.”

As Idaho continues to grow, partnerships like these are helping ensure our state remains a place where world-class recreation is not only abundant, but accessible for all. By supporting adaptive athletes and investing in year-round opportunities for engagement, the Challenged Athletes Foundation and Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse are helping strengthen Idaho’s outdoor culture and expand who gets to experience it.

We are grateful for partners who continue creating opportunities for Idahoans to connect, grow, and thrive outdoors in every season.

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