Hi friends, family, and community,
We’re raising funds to support Emery as he pursues his passion for ski racing this season. Last year was his 3rd year of ski racing, but this year, he has the incredible opportunity to take his ski race journey to the next level by competing in XLR8 Alpine Ski Race team that competes in USSA races across the Midwest. Highly regarded in Michigan, their team has achieved Top-20 NASTAR Nationals standings every year since 2010. This team would allow Emery to get regional exposure with potential for national exposure. But with opportunity comes cost. Between race entry fees, travel expenses, lift tickets, and equipment, the season can add up quickly.
That’s why we’re asking for your support.
Why We Need Your Help (example expenses):
- $50 covers one race entry fee
- $100 professional ski tuning
- $250 helps with travel and lodging for a race weekend
- $500+ supports new skis, boots, or protective gear
Bare Expenses
- XLR8 JDT Membership $594
- Additional Training Day for the season +$246
- Professional ski tuning: $120
- Epic ski pass (Veteran dependent): $333
Protective Gear
- Shin guards (SL): $60–$100
- SL poles (with guards): $80–$150
- GS poles (curved): $120–$200
- Chin guard (for SL helmet): $50–$80
- Back protector: $150–$250
- Padded race suit: $400–$800
- Additional Race skis - Racers often need 2–3 pairs (e.g., SL + GS, plus trainers): $400–$800 per pair
Races
- Junior racers (U12) regional ski races pending scheduling: $1,500–$2,500
Additional
This year our family joined the Jim Dandy Ski Club, the first Black ski club in the country based in Detroit. Each year they represent the club at the National Brotherhood of Snowsports (NBS, https://www.nbs.org/) Annual Summit in Keystone, CO. The mission of NBS is to: "identify, develop and support athletes of color who will win International and Olympic winter sports competitions representing the United States and to increase participation in winter sports."
A bonus goal is to support Emery in attending this NBS Summit (which happens to overlap with his birthday) to network among other youth skiers of color and participate in the U12 boys race where he will be able to compete against all U12 boys from Black ski clubs throughout the country.
- Flight for Emery, Detroit to Denver airport: $400
- Youth NBS Summit registration: $160
- Hotel pillow in CO during peak season: $1330
Every contribution—big or small—goes directly to making his season possible.
Our Goal:
$1,000 for Emery to join the XLR8 team
$2,000 for Emery to join team and go to NBS Summit in CO
(with our larger goal of $4,000 to be able to attend more races) to help cover the essentials for the 2025-26 race season.
How You Can Help:
- Donate whatever feels right to you.
- Share this fundraiser with your friends, coworkers, and on social media.
- Cheer him on! Your encouragement means the world.
Gratitude:
We’re so grateful for the amazing community that believes in Emery. Skiing keeps him grounded, happy, and mentally healthy through the long winter months, and every donation fuels his passion and helps him chase his dream of racing at the next level.
We’ll keep everyone updated with photos, race results, and stories from the slopes!
Thank you for being part of this journey! ⛷️💙
— Emery and family
