JACKSON HOLE, WYO – The Doug Coombs Foundation today announced the retirement of founder Emily Coombs.
Under Coombs’ leadership, the Foundation has provided the opportunity for hundreds of children from low-income families in Jackson to join their peers in a variety of outdoor activities—like skiing, soccer, rock climbing, and hiking—that had previously been inaccessible, forever changing the face of outdoor recreation in Jackson and enhancing community inclusion.
In September 2012, Emily launched the Doug Coombs Foundation to address the growing disparity she witnessed watching her son participate in recreational sports in Jackson. By the end of that first winter, Coombs had enrolled 28 children in the Snow King Winter Sports School, providing ski rentals, ski instruction and lift tickets. Over the years, the organization has grown to nearly 200 children skiing and engaging in other activities like soccer, hiking, rock climbing, and even golf.
“The pieces are in place for the organization to thrive without me—a strong Board of Directors and a full-time executive director, an established and clear mission and vision, and a great reputation and relationships in the community and around the country,” Coombs said. “It is heartwarming to see so many kids enjoy skiing and other sports today. I am excited to see how DCF will grow and evolve here in Jackson and serve as a model for other ski resort communities across the country seeking to create a better world through outdoor recreation.”
Executive director Mary Erickson, who took over last fall, said, “I am grateful to Emily for all she has done for the children of this community through the Coombs Foundation. We often say that the Doug Coombs Foundation inspires kids to reach beyond what they thought was possible in their lives, just as Doug inspired people in his life. But Emily is really our inspiration. She single-handedly created this Foundation, through perseverance and sheer force of will. I am honored that she has entrusted me, and our Board, to carry out her vision.”
Foundation board member Bill Maloney, who is also a longtime friend of Emily, added, “Through Emily’s dedication and entrepreneurial thinking, children from low-income families in Jackson have opportunities that help them feel like they are a part of our community, give them a sense of their own worth, and inspire them to achieve their dreams. Emily has left a lasting legacy for our community.”
Coombs will officially retire on May 31.
