Accessible Winter Fun

Shukri never imagined winter could become something her family would look forward to.

When she and her husband moved to Minnesota more than 20 years ago, snow and cold temperatures were completely unfamiliar. "Before moving here, we had never experienced snow,” she shared. Winter felt overwhelming at first, and spending time outside in the cold seemed impossible.

But over time, things began to change.

A friend introduced Shukri to MyXC SkiSparks at Hiawatha, after hearing her husband talk about wanting their children to experience skiing — something he never had the chance to try growing up. Their kids had already explored activities like soccer and karate, so when the family heard about SkiSparks, they decided to give it a try.

Now, winter looks completely different for their family.

"Our kids loved skiing last winter and are excited to do it again,” Shukri said. "Now it’s like they can’t wait for the snow again.”

Her children especially love skiing up and down hills, chasing the excitement and adventure that comes with being outside together. What once felt intimidating has become one of the family’s favorite ways to connect, stay active, and embrace winter.

"It has made our winter routines more active and engaging as a family,” Shukri shared. "We now spend more time outdoors together doing something fun and healthy.”

Beyond skiing itself, MyXC helped the family feel connected to something bigger — a welcoming community where they felt supported and included. As her children grew more confident outdoors, Shukri felt inspired to give back herself, becoming more involved as an outreach volunteer and coordinator.

"I wanted to help other families have a similar positive experience,” she said.

Today, she helps welcome new families into SkiSparks, especially families from communities who may have never imagined their children could participate in winter sports.

"I love watching families experience skiing for the first time and gradually gain confidence,” she shared. "Especially those from my own community who have never seen snow back home and believe their kids can’t participate in winter activities.”

Through scholarships, welcoming volunteers, affordable rentals, and supportive clubs, MyXC is helping more families discover joy outdoors in winter — together.

"MyXC makes it possible for families to enjoy winter through skiing and outdoor activities,” Shukri said. "It inspires confidence, joy, and opportunities for children that they may not otherwise experience.”

Your support helps families like Shukri’s feel connected, confident, and excited to get outside all winter long.

Ski for Fun. Ski for Sport. Ski for Life.