For Immediate Release: January 18, 2008

Contact: Sara Guiffre
Development Assistant
SOS Outreach
(970) 926-9292

SOS Outreach kicks off program at Snoqualmie

75 kids served from Seattle through SOS program

SEATTLE– SOS Outreach, formerly Snowboard Outreach Society, kicks off its 14th season this week with two ride days in the past week at Snoqualmie. SOS Outreach is a not for profit organization that aims to build character and self-esteem in at-risk youth through snowsports.

With the addition of skiing to their programs, SOS Outreach is poised to begin a new chapter in their programs for youth development.

“This season we will be experiencing 100% growth from last year. We’re really excited about the opportunities this will bring for SOS and our program participants,” Development Director Seth Ehrlich said.

Because of this growth, SOS Outreach is calling for any used skiing or snowboarding gear, especially jackets and snowboards, to be donated. With 100% growth, their gear needs are more demanding than past years.

SOS Outreach mentors and teaches at-risk youth valuable life skills and core values through two main programs: Learn To Ride (LTR) and the University Program.

The LTR program features 5 days, where the youth get professional instruction and all necessary gear. The LTR program focuses on one of the five core values each day: Courage, Discipline, Integrity, Wisdom and Compassion.

The University program is part of a 4 year curriculum, which incorporates community service and life skill workshops. The youth also have mentors, called Sherpas.

Snoqualmie’s SOS program serves youth from Seattle Parks and Recreation. For more information, to volunteer or to donate new or used gear, please call 970-926-9292 or visit www.sosoutreach.org.

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