ABOUT US

Why we do what we do

People come from around the world to experience Jackson Hole’s iconic public lands and recreation opportunities. Visitors and residents alike go outdoors to challenge themselves, relieve stress, and find inspiration. But not all locals have that same access - many Teton County families experience barriers to our outdoor recreation culture.

We believe that all local youth deserve to experience the outdoors and feel like they belong in our community. Coombs Outdoors seeks to break down these cultural, financial, and knowledge barriers by providing year-round outdoor programming for youth from Kindergarten to high school.

For our youngest participants, programs are a chance to play, try new activities, and get comfortable in outdoor spaces. For older kids, programs provide an outlet from challenges at school or at home, time away from screens, a chance to develop new skills, and even an opportunity to work an internship in the outdoor industry. Experiences spill over into the wider community as well as kids begin to recreate with friends or family outside of Coombs programs. 

Our Program Outcomes

Teton County youth grow up through our programs from Kindergarten through high school, building community, confidence, and skills along the way. Regardless of age or activity, our programs have three specific intentions and outcomes:

• Build a sense of community & belonging: Inclusion in activities that are significant to our local community and culture helps youth feel that they are able to connect with peers and feel valued by others.

• Increase self-worth & confidence: Access to outdoor recreation provides opportunities to complete challenging tasks, feel a sense of accomplishment, develop self-respect, and feel respected by others.

• Improve mental health & emotional intelligence: Regular activity and time outside with peers provides youth with an escape from stressful situations, builds coping and conflict resolution skills, and helps build structure and routine.

Inclusivity Statement

At Coombs Outdoors we strive to foster an environment that is welcoming, equitable, inclusive, and safe for all our participants, staff, and volunteers regardless of race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin, body type, or ability. We do not tolerate any identity-based harassment or discrimination including hate speech, bullying, or exclusionary behaviors.

We celebrate diversity and individuality and the ways in which they strengthen our community and contribute to a culture of safety and belonging at Coombs Outdoors.

Our Founding History

The spirit of Doug Coombs lives inside every child as they experience the joys of skiing and discover the spirit of adventure in the mountains.

Emily Coombs founded the Doug Coombs Foundation in 2012 to make sure all Jackson Hole youth had the opportunity to ski and participate in the many outdoor activities enjoyed by their peers, no matter the barriers their family experienced. Her goal was to keep kids active, connected with their community, and engaged in sports and outdoor activities year round.

During Emily’s 7 years running the organization, over 200 kids learned to ski. Year after year, these participants received continued support to stay on the slopes throughout their childhood. Many parents learned to ski as well, helping more families participate in Jackson ski culture.

Emily’s long term goal was to offer all Coombs skiers the opportunity to remain active year round, participating in a physical outdoor activity at least one day a week. To keep ski participants active, connected, and engaged during the non-winter months, all kids were invited into Jackson Hole youth soccer programs. A limited number of families were also able to participate in other activities such as climbing with Exum Mountain Guides and hiking in the Tetons, planting the seed for the array of non-winter programs Coombs offers today. 

Emily decided to step down in 2017. The organization then became “Coombs Outdoors” to reflect its programmatic work while holding onto the Coombs name and legacy. 

Coombs Outdoors has come a long way since Emily’s first winter with 28 ski school participants, now serving over 400 kids in over 10 programs throughout the year. Those inaugural skiers have come a long way, too - they’re in college today, and some are even working at Coombs to pass on their experiences to the next generation of Coombs kids. The Coombs legacy of joyful adventure and mission of breaking down barriers remains more important than ever. As our staff and programs expand, we’re proud to continue empowering our local youth to grow and thrive.