Organizations like Inclusion Way, Harbor Supported Living, and Tahoe Ability Program spend their days doing work that rarely makes headlines, but deeply changes lives all the same — helping people with disabilities build independence, connect with their communities, and access experiences that may otherwise be out of reach. These organizations, often run by small, highly dedicated teams, strive to ensure their participants can lead a fulfilling life full of adventure, challenge, and the chance to discover what their bodies and minds are capable of…

That’s where Achieve Tahoe comes in. Season after season, these three organizations load up their vans and bring their groups to the mountains, trails, and waters of Tahoe, trusting Achieve Tahoe’s staff and volunteers to deliver life-changing experiences in the outdoors.

We asked their group leaders (the ones who plan the trips, ride along, and watch the transformations firsthand) to tell us, in their own words, why they keep coming back to Achieve Tahoe.

A little about each organization…

Inclusion Way is a Sacramento-based day program that empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through real-world, immersive experiences and skill-building. Their programs build on individual’s unique strengths, fostering confidence, life skills, and leadership through immersive real-world experiences from taking the local bus to skiing with Achieve Tahoe.

Harbor Supported Living Services provides services to people with developmental disabilities in Santa Cruz County, California. Jonathan has been with Harbor Supported Living Services in the role of Facilitator for nearly 13 years. He says it has been a life changing experience watching the agency grow and thrive, being a pillar in the community and supporting people with disabilities living their best lives, in part with the support of Achieve Tahoe.

Tahoe Ability Program serves people with developmental disabilities in the North Lake Tahoe area. Tahoe Ability Program opened in September 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting a new program during such an uncertain time was challenging, but Achieve Tahoe was there to help TAP get on their feet. It is a partnership built on trust, shared experiences, and a genuine belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, explore, learn, and belong.

Tell us about your group’s first experience with Achieve Tahoe programs. How did you find us and how did it go?

Anna, Inclusion Way: “Our program works with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and we are always looking for meaningful opportunities for our members to get out into the community, try new things, and build independence. Our first experience with Achieve Tahoe was a great introduction to what was possible. Our members had the opportunity to participate in activities like archery, sailing, water skiing, kayaking and other outdoor experiences that many of them had never tried before. The staff were welcoming, patient, and made everyone feel comfortable.”

Jonathan, Harbor Supported Living: “This honestly is one of my favorite stories to tell! I was watching TV with a person I support, Randy. We saw a ski ad for Squaw and he said “man I will never be able to do that”. Randy is in a wheelchair and we had no idea about adaptive skiing at that time. I thought to myself that was unacceptable, and I started doing research. Lo and behold I found Achieve Tahoe right down the street at Alpine Meadows! We booked a ski trip just the two of us, and were blown away and have been coming back ever since! All these years later, now our most recent group had 13 people!”

Kimberly, Tahoe Ability Program: “Tahoe Ability Program has been working with Achieve Tahoe since we opened in September 2020. However, the relationship between our participants, staff, and Achieve Tahoe goes back many years before that. I previously worked for Achieve Tahoe, and many of our participants and I have been involved with their programming for more than 15 years—some of our participants have been connected with Achieve Tahoe for even longer. Because of that history, our partnership feels like a continuation of a relationship that has been built over many years.”

What made you decide to keep bringing your group back to Achieve Tahoe, year after year?

Anna, Inclusion Way: “We keep coming back because of the positive experience our members have each time. Achieve Tahoe provides opportunities that are difficult to recreate in our normal day-to-day programming. Our members get to challenge themselves, try something new, spend time outdoors, and experience success in an environment where they feel supported. It has become something our members look forward to.”

Jonathan, Harbor Supported Living: “The people at Achieve Tahoe immediately made us feel welcome, and the program offers experiences that otherwise would not be available elsewhere, on top of the draw of sacred Lake Tahoe and the fact that the interest within our organization has continued to grow each year, we plan to continue this tradition and return as often as possible.”

Kimberly, Tahoe Ability Program: “There are two big reasons we continue to come back. First, it is simply so much fun! Every time we participate, there is an opportunity to experience something new, even when we are doing an activity we have done before. Everyone continues to learn, grow, and discover something about themselves. Second, it feels like family. That is what community should feel like—welcoming, supportive, and connected. We feel incredibly lucky to have that kind of relationship with Achieve Tahoe.”

What changes do you notice in participants after a day with Achieve Tahoe?

Anna, Inclusion Way: “We notice a big difference in their confidence and mood. Members who may initially be nervous or unsure of themselves often become more comfortable once they realize they can participate and succeed. They come back excited to talk about what they did and proud of themselves. It also gives them an opportunity to socialize with their peers and work together.”

Jonathan, Harbor Supported Living: “Oftentimes, one thing I notice is that people may be nervous to do new things at first, but afterwards, they love it so much they want to keep coming back, and tell their friends. That is how our group has grown so much over the years. I think it helps raise their confidence and help them realize they can do anything if they just give it a shot. Most importantly, I see the smiles on their faces and how excited they are!”

Kimberly, Tahoe Ability Program: “The number one thing I notice after a day with Achieve Tahoe is that everyone is completely content. Everyone has had the opportunity to participate in an activity they enjoy, with the support they need to be successful. The way the Achieve Tahoe staff guides interactions—with patience, encouragement, and genuine kindness—has also had an impact on our own staff team. We can all learn from one another, and I think it is important to recognize that. Tahoe Ability Program also takes our participants on excursions throughout the community, and we see the skills and confidence they have gained through their experiences with Achieve Tahoe carry over into those activities. That makes a tremendous difference for our participants and our staff.”

Can you share a specific moment or story about a participant that has stuck with you?

Anna, Inclusion Way: “Tayler has shared that she sometimes feels left out and struggles with feeling like she doesn’t have friends. Trying new things can also make her nervous, so seeing how excited she was to return to Donner Lake with Achieve Tahoe was truly special. She talked about the trip all week and, with encouragement from the Achieve Tahoe and Inclusion Way teams, she stepped outside her comfort zone. While kayaking, Tayler slowed down, took in the scenery, and shared that she thought it was “so beautiful.” She also had a blast tubing with some of her favorite people, laughing and enjoying every moment. Throughout the day, Tayler kept checking in with staff, smiling and sharing how happy she was. For Tayler, this was more than just a day at the lake—it was a moment where she felt included, supported, and surrounded by people who care about her. It was beautiful to watch her step outside her comfort zone and create memories with some of her favorite people.”

Jonathan, Harbor Supported Living: “It is hard to give one specific moment because there have been so many to really narrow down one. One memorable moment came in 2019, Randy and I were skiing with the instructors at Alpine Meadows. By this time, we had been coming for a few years and I had skied with him several times. Randy is in a wheelchair and before this program, it was never even a thought that he would ski, but now we were skiing side by side with each other as if it was normal- and not only that, but Randy was flying so fast that I had a hard time even keeping up! I had this major euphoric moment that hit me as I skied down the slope with one of my best buds, in one of my favorite places in the world that I will never forget. That is a moment I will never take for granted and it is all thanks to Achieve Tahoe.”

Kimberly, Tahoe Ability Program: “Recently, one of our participants lost his favorite hat while riding a jet ski. He loved that hat, and for a moment, losing it felt like a really big deal. The Achieve Tahoe staff helped him work through those feelings and understand that, while it is okay to be disappointed when we lose something we love, physical things can be replaced. Through lots of encouragement and positive support, he was able to move past the disappointment and finish the day happy. It was a small moment, but it was a meaningful reminder that sometimes the things we think are most important are not what matter most. What matters is the experience, the people around us, and the memories we create together.”

What stands out to you about the instructors and volunteers?

Anna, Inclusion Way: “What stands out most to us about the instructors and volunteers is the patience, encouragement, and genuine care they show toward each of our members. They take the time to get to know each person and understand their individual abilities, comfort levels, and needs instead of expecting everyone to participate in the same way. We also really appreciate how the instructors encourage our members to challenge themselves while still making them feel safe and supported. If someone is nervous or unsure about trying an activity, they don’t pressure them. Instead, they provide reassurance, break the activity down into manageable steps, and celebrate their progress along the way. Seeing the instructors get excited and celebrate with our members when they accomplish something is really meaningful. Another thing that stands out is how inclusive and welcoming the entire team is. Our members are treated with respect and as capable individuals, and the instructors focus on what they can do rather than what they may struggle with. That creates an environment where our members feel comfortable trying new things, asking for help, and taking pride in their accomplishments. The volunteers are also a huge part of the experience. They are hands-on, attentive, and willing to jump in wherever they are needed. Their positive attitudes make the outings feel like a true community experience rather than just another program activity. We really value the partnership we have with Achieve Tahoe because the staff and volunteers make our members feel seen, supported, and excited to come back.

Jonathan, Harbor Supported Living: “At this point, coming for 10+ years we have had so many experiences with different instructors and volunteers. There has not been one single time where we have not been blown away with how kind, gentle, and compassionate everyone is. Each time we roll up, everyone knows our names and remembers us! The volunteers immediately kick in and start working with the participants in such a way that makes us all feel so comfortable, welcome, and knowing that it is okay to all be who we are.”

Kimberly, Tahoe Ability Program: “The instructors and staff at Achieve Tahoe are incredibly empathetic, encouraging, and supportive. They meet people where they are and help them move forward from there. Life can be hard for everyone, and seeing experiences through the eyes of the people we serve is pretty incredible. Achieve Tahoe does a wonderful job of creating an environment where people feel safe enough to try something new, challenge themselves, and experience success in their own way.”

How do family members or caregivers react when they hear about these outings?

Anna, Inclusion Way: “Family members and caregivers are usually very excited and appreciative when they hear about these outings. They know that these experiences give our members opportunities to get out into the community, try activities they may not normally have access to, and build confidence and independence. Many families are especially happy to hear that their loved one is being encouraged to try something new while also having the proper support and supervision throughout the experience. We also hear a lot of excitement from families when members come home and share what they did that day. It is rewarding for families to see their loved ones come back happy, excited, and proud of themselves. Sometimes a member may initially be nervous about participating in an activity, so hearing that they stepped outside of their comfort zone and accomplished something new can mean a lot to their family. I think families really value that these outings are not just about having fun, they are also creating opportunities for our members to develop confidence, socialize with others, become more independent, and create memories that they can talk about long after the outing is over.”

Jonathan, Harbor Supported Living: “In my experience, many people respond with surprise, excitement and joy when they first find out a program like this even exists, and after the outings happen those feelings have proven to be very emotional as often times, a family member and loved one may have never even thought these types of experiences were possible.”

Kimberly, Tahoe Ability Program: “We share many of the amazing activities and experiences our participants are involved in through social media and our newsletters. One of the most rewarding parts is hearing the enthusiasm from participants and their families afterward. When a participant asks when they can do it again, or a family member tells us how excited they are about the experience, we know we are doing something meaningful. Those responses show us that we are meeting people where they are, creating experiences that are meaningful to them, and giving them opportunities to be active and included in their community.”

What would you tell another organization considering bringing a group for the first time?

Anna, Inclusion Way: “I would absolutely recommend it to another organization. If it is your group’s first time, I would encourage you to come with an open mind and allow your participants the opportunity to try something new, even if they are initially nervous or unsure. Achieve Tahoe does a great job of creating a welcoming and supportive environment where each person can participate at their own comfort level and ability. The instructors and volunteers are very patient and encouraging, and they make the experience enjoyable for both the participants and staff. It is also a great opportunity for members to build confidence, socialize with others, be active, and experience things they may not normally get to do. Most importantly, I would tell organizations not to underestimate what their participants are capable of. Give them the opportunity, provide the support they need, and let them surprise you.”

Jonathan, Harbor Supported Living: “Be prepared to be pushed outside your box and comfort zone at first. In my opinion, that is a major point of these experiences- to try new things and to have that thrill and joy of skiing down the slopes or gliding across the lake on a jetski. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but these experiences come with the highest level of joy and excitement, proving that you can do anything if you are willing to put in the effort to make it happen.”

Kimberly, Tahoe Ability Program: “I would tell them that there is no shortage of opportunity for meaningful experiences with Achieve Tahoe. Will things be hard sometimes? Yes. Will things occasionally feel scary or challenging? Absolutely. But that is exactly why Achieve Tahoe is so valuable. Their staff is there to support people through those moments while helping them experience the joy, adventure, and possibilities that life has to offer. Achieve Tahoe does more than provide activities. They create opportunities for people to discover what they can do, build confidence, connect with others, and experience a true sense of belonging. We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Achieve Tahoe and for all the years of friendship, learning, laughter, and shared experiences. Our communities are stronger when organizations come together to support one another, and we are proud to be part of that community.”

None of these empowering outdoor experiences happen without planning, paperwork, early-morning van loading, and the dedicated group leaders who do it all year after year. And it takes donors, whose generosity keeps Achieve Tahoe’s adaptive equipment, trained instructors, and scholarships available to the organizations and participants who need them most.

To the group leaders who keep showing up, and the donors who make it possible for them to keep showing up — thank you.