History of Choice Pass
Choice Pass started as a pilot program for freshmen in high school in the late 1990s. The idea was to provide teens with healthy alternatives to drugs with a cheap ski pass.
The program was successful!
Choice Pass has grown and changed in many ways from the first program. What started as a handful of community partners continues to grow. In 2023 there were 40 businesses; in 2026 we are excited to have over 60 local businesses celebrating youths’ healthy decision making!
In 2015 Choice Pass programming grew to include an avalanche safety course! As of 2025, avalanche safety continues to be taught each year, as does backcountry skiing, wilderness first aid, a week long outdoor youth leadership (with one over night) for high schoolers, a 3 day-2 night backpacking leadership course for middle schoolers, middle school climbing club, and several pottery classes! Courses at the high school level are often eligible for credit from Gunnison Watershed School District and volunteer hours for Lake City High School.
In 2024, Signature Properties in Crested Butte committed to honoring TWO Choice Pass seniors with $1000 scholarships for five years. What an amazing way to celebrate seniors who stick to the program! Thanks Signature Properties!
