"Although I didn't make it to the summit of Mt. Rainier that sunrise, near the top of the world, gave me a new perspective on life. I realized the importance of challenging one's own limits and ingenuity even if you are not able to achieve a goal. That sunrise placed into me a sense of wonder that had nothing to do with whether or not I made it to the summit. It is not always necessary to achieve an ultimate goal, because the reward of self satisfaction was enough from within. "
- Kate Svitek
Grants
The Kate Memorial was established in Spring, 2002 shortly after Kate died on Mt. Bachelor in a snowboard accident. The Foundation's mission is to provide financial support to individuals, groups, and various institutions whose interests and goals align with Kate's hopes and dreams. The primary focus is to promote and underwrite a range of activities and education principally related to outdoor and wilderness exploration study, observation, preservation, improvement, expansion, and enhancement.
Past Recipients
Since our inception, we have awarded grants to over 53 different organizations, including:
Letters from Participants
Over the years, we have received many thank you notes from students who have participated in programs supported by the Foundation. We are so proud of their achievements and we wanted to share a few here:
Ethan from UVM
A Poem by Ariana Velez of North Carolina Outward Bound
Genesis from North Carolina Outward Bound
Sierra Zischke
Community Academy of Philadelphia Students
Sean Donovan
Zachary Lance
Brian Martino
Ralph Rogers
Patrina Sanchez
Katie Tausendfreundt