Fresh off another record-breaking World Cup season, alpine skiing legend Mikaela Shiffrin returned home to Colorado and hit the slopes for a cause far bigger than medals: opening the world of snowsports to the next generation.
The Olympic gold medalist and winningest alpine skier in history hosted an exclusive ski day at Copper Mountain with about 40 young girls, many from the elevateHER program, kicking off a major new fundraising initiative in partnership with the Share Winter Foundation and Oakley.
Shiffrin is aiming to raise $1 million to expand access to skiing and snowboarding for youth across the United States. The ambitious goal doubles her earlier target after her previous “MIK100” campaign, tied to her 100th World Cup victory, already raised nearly $500,000.
“It’s been really cool to see how raising money for Share Winter helps impact kids like you to get outside and get into snow sports,” Shiffrin told the excited group of 10- to 14-year-olds.
The Share Winter Foundation works to remove financial and logistical barriers by providing lift tickets, gear, lessons, and transportation. Last season alone, the organization helped approximately 41,000 kids experience snowsports at 97 mountains nationwide. According to the foundation, it costs about $500 to support one child for a full season on snow.
During the invite-only event, Shiffrin — sporting glitter on her cheeks — skied alongside the girls, offered coaching tips, and shared words of encouragement. The day was designed not just to teach technique but to build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging on the mountain.
Shiffrin, who grew up skiing in the Vail area, has long emphasized giving back to the sport that shaped her. The “GOAT Gives Back” initiative, an expansion of her MIK100 efforts, focuses on underserved communities and programs like elevateHER, a Chaffee County nonprofit that fosters self-worth and grit in young women through outdoor adventure and mentoring.
Supporters can contribute through Shiffrin’s partnership platforms, with matching opportunities from sponsors helping to multiply the impact.
As one of the most dominant athletes in winter sports history, Shiffrin continues to redefine what it means to be a champion — using her platform to ensure the slopes remain open to all, not just the elite. Her latest push promises to create life-changing opportunities for thousands of young Coloradans and beyond, proving that true greatness lies in lifting others up.
