Breaking Barriers: A Look Into Mountain Rec’s Youth Scholarship Program

At Mountain Recreation, we believe in building a healthy and happy community. That’s why we offer a youth scholarship program, to reduce financial barriers and ensure all kids have the opportunity to play, grow and connect through recreation. As participation costs continue to rise nationwide, our scholarships help offset expenses and encourage youth involvement. Our program ensures that cost does not determine whether a child gains life-saving skills through swim lessons, feels safe and supported at camp or experiences the joy of teamwork and belonging through sports.

By reducing barriers to entry, we increase youth participation in activities that support mental and physical health, build confidence and establish positive lifelong habits. Expanding access to recreation means healthier, happier kids today and a stronger, more connected community for the future, where we can all be active, healthy and together.

Scholarships are available to any family residing in Eagle County with children under the age of 18. Each approved youth receives $285 in scholarship funds, with a maximum of $1,140 per family, opening the door to meaningful recreation opportunities throughout the year. Applications are accepted annually each January, and families who have previously received funds are welcome to apply again, as long as prior-year funds have been fully used.

The impact of these scholarships is best seen through the experiences of the families who receive them. José Figueroa and Sandra Dalton, parents of three children each, share how the program has made a difference for their families.

“This scholarship means a lot to me because it allows my children to get engaged in sports, try new things and make friends. Mountain Rec’s scholarship program has helped my kids try a new sport, Taekwondo, and fall in love with it. I have seen a lot of growth and development in my children since they started taking classes.”

Sandra, a mother of three, shares that her family’s involvement with Mountain Recreation has played an important role in helping her children stay active while building healthy habits. Through Mountain Rec programs, her children have had the opportunity to learn, grow, and explore their interests in a positive and supportive environment. She explains that the Youth Scholarship Program has made it possible for her children to participate in activities such as gymnastics, soccer, basketball, and swimming—experiences that go far beyond physical activity. These programs have helped her children develop confidence, teamwork, discipline, and social skills, while removing financial barriers that might otherwise limit participation. Motivated by the positive impact she sees each year, Sandra continues to apply for the scholarship, knowing these opportunities help her children feel included, supported, and excited to try new things.

Scholarship dollars may be used toward annual youth memberships, youth programs, drop-in Tumble Tots and birthday parties offered by the Mountain Rec. While individual or private lessons, personal training and contractual programs are not eligible, the scholarship is designed to support broad participation in recreation experiences that foster connection and active lifestyles.

This year, 27 families representing 57 kids received scholarship support from 79 applications. This reflects both the program’s impact and the continued need in our community. Every contribution helps remove barriers, opening doors for more children to feel included and empowered through recreation.

If you are interested in donating to the Youth Scholarship Program, please contact Jamie Wilson, Mountain Rec’s. Marketing and Community Engagement Manager, at JWilson@MountainRec.org. Additional fundraising opportunities will also be available at upcoming events throughout the year.