Mountain Access Spotlight: Friends of the Children of Central Oregon
Through the Play Forever Mountain Access program, Mt. Bachelor and Friends of the Children of Central Oregon (FOTCCO) partner to give local youth the experience of connection, movement, and joy in the outdoors. We know that snow sports are more than just a hobby; they are a catalyst for healthy lifestyle choices, environmental stewardship, and personal growth, including the ability to overcome challenges, think critically, and exercise independence.
FOTCCO is a local nonprofit that helps youth succeed despite extremely difficult life experiences and situations. FOTCCO mentors provide long-term support for children as young as four years old and continue to build nurturing relationships through high school graduation.
Each day, mentors advocate for and help amplify the voices of youth and their families. They also create meaningful experiences that teach youth to build life skills and make informed decisions while exploring their diverse talents and interests.
We had the opportunity to speak with Jonathan Perera about his experience working for FOTCCO and bringing youth to Mt. Bachelor.
Shortly after moving to Bend in December 2024, I saw an open role with FOTCCO and was struck by the opportunity. It felt so serendipitous, aligned with my snowboard coaching background, my passion for serving youth, and my desire to get involved and give back to the community.
I’ve been coming to Mt. Bachelor since 2024, but I’ve been snowboarding for over 20 years and have instructed and coached at a few different mountains. There’s something rare about Mt. Bachelor though—the community, the energy, the terrain—it’s all so fun!
-Jonathan Perera
Q: Why do you think it is important, special, and fun to bring youth skiing and snowboarding?
A: Mountain sports teach life lessons in a way that few other things can. Something about falling over and over again for fun is a powerful catalyst for courage, resilience, and self-esteem. Not to mention, getting to recreate outdoors and experience the natural beauty of Central Oregon gives a whole new appreciation for where you live.
Q: What is something you notice about the youth after a day on the slopes?
A: The camaraderie, the excitement, and the presence are so beautiful to see when I have the boys on the mountain. They're cheering each other on, chatting on the chairlift, and getting stoked on the simplest things. It's contagious too!
Q: What are you most surprised by when you take someone skiing or snowboarding for the first time?
A: After teaching hundreds of lessons with Ski & Ride School and coaching with MBSEF, there isn't much about a new skier or snowboarder that surprises me anymore. One of my favorite things about getting someone on the mountain for the first time—especially our youth with FOTCCO—is how different their attitude and energy are at the end of the day compared to the beginning. Even if they're excited, a lot of people show up timid or nervous at first, but by the end they're glowing and full of joy. They may have had a hard day and taken some nasty falls, but nailing a few good turns and unlocking a new skill does something amazing for their confidence. Bearing witness to that second-hand stoke is what keeps me coming back. I'd bottle it up if I could.
Thank you, Jonathan, and FOTCCO, for partnering with us and for the amazing programs and services you provide to our community!