Let me take this opportunity to introduce myself.

My name is Janine and I am filling the past Outreach Coordinator’s (Alana McLeod’s) big shoes as Community Outreach Coordinator at Rocky Mountain Adaptive. I have been in Canmore on-and-off since the early 2000s. It’s a great pleasure to be back in Canmore. About ten years ago, I was the head coach of the Canmore Coho Swim Club. Most recently, I was a program evaluator at United Way in Calgary. I joke that my job was to count all the good things that happen. With over 100 programs funded in the community, I learned a lot about the great work of agencies and how philanthropy directly transforms lives. I am also an avid skier – now sharing my love with my daughter who is learning how to make her own turns.

I am at home in the swimming community. RMA’s coach Mike even teased that I have lots of ‘indoor’ friends. But now, at Rocky Mountain Adaptive, I will be making all sorts of ‘outdoor’ friends. What a privilege! The staff, board members, volunteers and supporters are incredibly smart and kind. Hearing of all the success of the last 10 years or so has swelled my heart with anticipation of the good things to come.

RMA is having its most successful year in getting more people in the mountains than ever before. While celebrating the successes, there is much remembrance of those who laid the groundwork. Friends and co workers are misty-eyed when speaking about board member, Matthew Hamer’s, unconditional support for the organization. Additionally, they speak in awe of Steve Horner’s unyielding contribution to the operations of the team. Other people too numerous to mention are the bedrock of the organization. It is bewildering to witness how such a great group has come together.