OUR SOCIAL MISSION STARTS WITH SOS OUTREACH
Oars + Alps is thrilled to be partnering with SOS Outreach. From inception, Oars + Alps aimed to provide active guys products that go beyond taking care of their skin. Products that are part of their on-the-go lifestyles. Products that help them achieve their goals. SOS Outreach understands what it means to live a life steeped in high-impact, emotionally-charged and very rewarding activity. In fact, they bring this ethos to at-risk youth who are looking to lead a more fulfilling life.
This year will mark 25 years since SOS Outreach has been transforming lives of these kids with the support of resort communities around the country, giving them a platform for learning positive values while spending time outdoors.
SOS Outreach uses year-round outdoor sports and mentoring programming for 5,000 youth all over the country. Their curriculum integrates outdoor experiential learning, character development, community service, and social justice advocacy as mentoring tools, encouraging young people to be the best versions of themselves. And yes, in the process, they’re learning how to ski, snowboard, rock climb, kayak, and so much more.
In late winter of 2017, SOS Outreach tried something new in their programming, and it took place outside of the 30 mountain resorts in 7 states where they usually operate in partnership with Vail Resorts. Instead of one week of activities like in other areas, the team brought students from Detroit’s Cezar Chavez Martin Academy to Mt. Brighton once a week for the entire month of February. This format was a pilot for expanding into the Midwest region, giving Oars + Alps even more reason to offer support.
As SOS expands and we grow our brand, we aim to support the organization in the form of product donations, proceeds from sales, custom programming, and more. If you’re interested in supporting this initiative, check out their donation page and stay in touch on O + A Instagram for updates on our involvement.
Take to the oars,
Mia + Laura
