NEXT UP:

Nordic skiing begins

Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026: First session for the cross-country skiing and snowshoeing program will run from 9-11:30 a.m. at the Rum Village Nature Center, 2626 S. Gertrude St., South Bend. No snow? We hike instead.

alpine skiing begins

Monday, Jan. 5, 2026: First session of downhill skiing program at Swiss Valley. The bus departs promptly at 6 p.m. from Memorial's Lighthouse Center, 6901 Main St. in Granger, Indiana. Or meet us at Swiss Valley rental building at 7 p.m. We leave Swiss at 9 p.m.

chippin’, dippin’ & margarita sippin’

Saturday, March 7, 2026: Join the tacos, drinks, silent auction and fun at SOLO’s second annual big fundraiser from 5-8 p.m. in the Hannah & Friends gym, 51250 Hollyhock Road, South Bend. Catered by Lily’s Cocina. Must be 21 or older. Cost is $35 per person or $250 for a table of eight. We welcome donations of gift baskets for the auction, wine and event supplies. If you want to help or be a sponsor, please contact Tammy Pfister at 574-538-8049 or Brad Pfister at bradpfister1@gmail.com.

SOLO provides outdoor winter educational and recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities from St. Joseph County, Ind., and nearby counties in an effort to:

• Encourage independence and increase participation in family and community leisure opportunities

• Educate the community regarding the capabilities of and opportunities for persons with disabilities

Skiing offers a freedom of movement that most persons with disabilities have never experienced. At the same time, it creates an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and unsurpassed confidence. A person who has difficulty walking will find themselves gliding smoothly down the hill with a newfound poise and agility.

We welcome both adults and children at least 8 years of age to join us. SOLO is open to students with physical, visual, auditory, or significant mental impairments.