Last week, I volunteered with Skiku in Utqiagvik, the northernmost town in the United States! Skiku is an Alaskan program dedicated to bringing the joys of skiing and biathlon to rural communities. It was my second year volunteering with the program, and once again, it was an experience filled with adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable moments.

Skiku has a simple mission: to encourage kids to embrace the outdoors and discover the thrill of skiing! Throughout the week, our team of volunteers visited the three schools in Utqiagvik. Witnessing the excitement and eagerness of these young learners as they tackled new challenges on skis was inspiring.

The weather was mild and the wind was calm for the most part. The caribou herd fed right outside of the middle school, leaving their tracks and droppings in the snow where we played wolves and caribou (sharks and minnows). The possibility of spotting a polar bear added an extra layer of excitement to our days.

Our trip wasn’t just about skiing, it was also a week spent immersed in culture of the Iñupiat people. We were invited to participate in the spring whaling celebration, where the community came together to honor their traditions with potlucks, contests, and dances! Sampling traditional foods like whale, seal, and walrus gave us a taste of the local cuisine and was definitely a highlight of the trip!

The most rewarding aspect of our trip was the connections we made. From hearing stories from the parents about their children’s excitement for skiing to bonding with our teammates over a shared experience, every interaction was a reminder of the power of human connection.

I am thankful for the opportunity to have been part of Skiku the last two years. The program not only enriches the lives of the communities it serves but also leaves a lasting impact on the volunteers who participate. Both of my trips with Skiku have full of self-discovery with my own path of skiing and biathlon, filled with cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences.

If you’re looking for an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, I highly recommend volunteering with Skiku. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a novice, the opportunity to explore remote communities, learn about different cultures, and make lasting connections is an experience like no other.

Thank you to the North Slope School District for welcoming us with open arms, and to Skiku for another incredible journey.

Skiku