Ellicottville NY
Letter from
Development Officer
Dave Vander Ploeg
“Ten years ago, when we started building Men’s Day, we simply wanted to raise money for a good cause. That’s it. Because we knew we were going to break a few rules.
And that’s when we were introduced to the Phoenix Program.
Our adaptive ski program.
What started as an idea to do some good turned into something that changed all of us.
I’ve had the privilege over the years of meeting some of the most incredible athletes I’ve ever known through Phoenix. Not incredible because of what they’ve overcome, but because of how they show up. The grit. The joy. The determination. They redefine what ability really means.
Men’s Day supporting Phoenix was supposed to be the shield so we wouldn’t get in trouble.
What I didn’t expect was that the shield would turn into one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.
Together, over the last decade, we’ve raised more than $350,000 U.S. for this program. That’s equipment. That’s instruction. That’s access. That’s confidence. That’s belonging.
And we’re not slowing down.
On March 12, Phoenix will host six U.S. military veterans for a day of skiing. 2026 marks the third year of our veterans’ outreach program, and one we intend to grow.
And this summer, Phoenix will launch an adaptive biking program here at HoliMont, expanding our commitment to individuals and families with special abilities beyond the winter season.
But the real champions aren’t the people who raised the money.
They’re the kids.
The veterans.
The volunteers.
The instructors.
And especially Dave Berghash and Chuck.
To all of you — we toast you, and we thank you.
Phoenix is 30 years old. I’m proud of the last ten. And I cannot wait to see where this program is at 40.
And I know this room is going to make that happen.”
Dave Vander Ploeg,
Chief Business Development Officer