Industry News
The Katz Amsterdam Charitable Trust, led by Vail Resorts executive chairperson Rob Katz and New York Times bestselling author Elana Amsterdam, is stepping up its support for mental health initiatives in North American mountain communities. The couple recently donated $2.66 million with aims to bolster mental and behavioral health programs in 12 mountain towns, including 10 where Vail Resorts operates.
Over the past eight years, Katz and Amsterdam have been at the forefront of enhancing mental health resources in these communities, with their total contributions exceeding $56 million since 2016, Ski Industry News reports. The latest grants issued by Katz Amsterdam will foster collaboration and innovation across various regions spanning Colorado, Utah, California, Nevada, Wyoming, Vermont, Washington, and British Columbia.
Rob Katz expressed gratitude for the growing acceptance and dialogue surrounding mental health in mountain communities, emphasizing the importance of supporting organizations working to improve access to essential services and combat the stigma associated with mental health issues. The grants from their foundation will fund a range of programs, including hiring bilingual mental health professionals, providing therapy and substance abuse treatment scholarships for marginalized communities, and supporting community surveys to identify mental health needs.
These efforts complement Vail Resorts’ commitment to mental health support for employees, offering counseling sessions and wellness resources. Additionally, the company’s EpicPromise grants provide support to over 400 nonprofits across mountain communities, addressing various social needs.
The Katz Amsterdam Foundation aims to eliminate disparities in health access and promote equitable outcomes for all individuals. By partnering with communities and prioritizing community-driven initiatives, they strive to improve the well-being of individuals and foster healthier, more inclusive communities.
For more information, visit www.katzamsterdam.org.
