The New England Healing Sports Association serves individuals and families through adaptive sports, promoting healing and accomplishment.
Earlier this week, the organization held its 2026 Women Veterans Appreciation Event, a multi-day adaptive winter sports experience designed exclusively for female veterans. This annual event at Mount Sunapee brought together participants from across New England for connection, empowerment and healing through sports like snowboarding and skiing.
Created to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for women who have served, the event combined personalized adaptive ski instruction with community-building experiences that fostered camaraderie and resilience. Participants worked one-on-one with the organization’s adaptive instructors and volunteers, using specialized equipment tailored to their individual needs and goals.
“When women come together on the snow, something powerful happens,” said Carly Bascom, executive director of New England Healing Sports Association. “Bonds are formed while learning a new skill, confidence grows and healing continues on and off the mountain. Volunteers and staff alike love this event, and we are so fortunate to collaborate with the VA New England Healthcare System and Mount Sunapee each year to make it all happen.”
The annual event is also made possible with support from the Vail Resorts Epic Promise Foundation, Mount Sunapee Resort, Move United and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Research consistently shows that adaptive sports programming supports physical
rehabilitation, reduces social isolation and strengthens overall well-being for veterans.
Beyond the slopes, the event provided space for meaningful connection. Many participants
shared that the opportunity to learn, laugh and support one another in a women-centered
environment consistently makes the experience especially poignant.
