Partnered with Aspen Snowmass, the Aspen Inclusion Project is a nonprofit program that works to provide access to educational support and funded ski/snowboard opportunities for under-resourced students in the valley.
Participants are paired weekly over Zoom with a student tutor for subjects they are struggling with, and provided they attend their weekly online tutoring sessions, they receive up to seven free skiing sessions with a licensed Aspen Ski Co. instructor over a ten-twelve week period from February to April.
Lift tickets and all equipment, as well as refreshments and meals, are provided.
THE PROGRAM
THE TEAM
ROBERT Helsing
FOUNDER/CEO
My name is Robert Forrest Helsing. I am a 16 year old from Newport Beach, California. In August 2021, away from the soft beaches and glistening salt waves, my family and I settled in our new home in Aspen’s snow capped mountain range, where I was able to ski regularly. I don’t remember my first time on skis, what I could see or hear, if I was hungry or cold, but I remember what I felt: weightless, cradled by the earth, free from gravitational pressure. A transcendental purity away from the noise; the realm of the mountain, a world I think everyone should experience. Unfortunately, this magical sport is mostly reserved for a lucky few. It didn’t take me long to realize that most of the people who live in and around Aspen can’t afford the gear, training, or transport you need to hit the slopes. I launched AIP to change that; our model combines skiing opportunities with pro bono tutoring to enrich local, under-resourced young people’s lives today, and tomorrow.
Sharif Khan
My name is Sharif Khan. I am a 16 year old originally from Chicago, but I’ve also called Dallas, Indianapolis, Miami, and most recently Aspen, home. I’m interested in economics, engineering, and business, and I’m a congressional debater. I became a part of The Aspen Inclusion Project because I care about dismantling systemic inequality, and saw an opportunity here to make a big difference in our community. In my spare time, I also love playing basketball and soccer, volunteering, and snowboarding.
COO
Mateo Taffarelli
My name is Mateo Taffarelli. I’m originally from Mendoza Argentina and immigrated to the United States when I was little. Growing up in Aspen I grew quite an affection for the outdoors. Aspen also has a very good Art scene and inspired me to do things like graphic and visual art and design. In the future I would love to apply these skills to Architecture as the lines between Art, Nature, and Engineering further merge together. I think The Aspen Inclusion Project is a great way to practice my artistic skills and give back to my community
Graphic Designer
Collin LUU
CCO
My name is Collin Luu. I was raised and born in Aspen, Colorado, where I was given the opportunity to Ski, a luxury many will never experience. The Aspen Inclusion Project is something close to my heart because, though I was given the privileges and opportunities of the Aspen community, there is a disparity in access to skiing and education for under-resourced kids. I aim to break down those barriers, and in doing so, I aim to achieve a future where every child, regardless of their background, can embrace the wonders of skiing and receive the academic support needed to thrive.
