Sixty-five children undergoing cancer treatment will travel to Aspen this month to participate in the 26th Aspen Winter Games, an eight-day adaptive ski and snowboard program hosted by the Shining Stars Foundation, according to a press release issued by the organization. The Aspen-based nonprofit, founded in 2001, will hold the program March 20-27 at Buttermilk Mountain. The weeklong event pairs each child with a volunteer ski instructor for one-on-one adaptive instruction, working alongside medical professionals to ensure safety on the slopes.
The program culminates in a timed downhill race on Buttermilk’s Panda Peak, where participants ski in front of family members, volunteers, and supporters. In addition to daily time on the mountain, the itinerary includes a snowmobile excursion to the Maroon Bells, a talent show called “The Star Factor,” a disco event at the Aspen Elks Lodge, and a closing banquet at the St. Regis Aspen Resort, according to the release.
“The Winter Games are about more than skiing,” Kathy Gingery, founder and CEO of the Shining Stars Foundation, said in the statement. “They build confidence, create connection and remind kids they are not alone.”
The 2026 program coincides with the foundation’s 25th year of service. Since its inception, more than 1,200 children and 5,500 family members have participated in Shining Stars programs nationwide, the organization said. In 2025 alone, the foundation reported delivering 73 days of programming and more than 3,600 individual experiences to over 400 children and family members.
All lodging, meals, lift tickets, adaptive instruction, and equipment for the Aspen Winter Games are provided at no cost to participating families. The foundation said the event relies on more than 250 volunteers, instructors, medical staff, and community partners. Local organizations including the Basalt Lions Club, Aspen Rotary Club, and Aspen Elks Lodge contribute meals and support services.
Major supporters for the 2026 Winter Games include Aspen Snowmass, the Inn at Aspen, Home Team BBQ, the Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation, Laura and Warren Kruger, and Shea’s Village, among others, according to the release. Shining Stars Foundation operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by individual donors, foundation grants, and community partnerships, and is not affiliated with other Aspen philanthropic events. Additional information about the Aspen Winter Games and volunteer or donor opportunities is available through the organization’s website.
