A youngster participating in the NIMSEF scholarship program gets their ski boots fitted.
(Courtesy Photo)
SANDPOINT — The North Idaho Mountain Sports Education Fund, Inc. (NIMSEF) is now accepting applications for its 2025-2026 ski and snowboard scholarships through a newly redesigned website, www.nimsef.com.
NIMSEF provides opportunities for Bonner and Boundary County children whose families cannot afford the cost of skiing, as well as for disabled individuals. With generous support from Schweitzer, the nonprofit has helped more than 1,000 youth and dozens of disabled athletes experience the joy of skiing and snowboarding since its founding in 2010. NIMSEF also supports veterans by helping to sponsor a Veteran’s Ski Day at Schweitzer annually.
The updated website streamlines the scholarship application process, offers detailed information about NIMSEF programs, and highlights inspiring alumni stories. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which celebrated its 15th anniversary during the 2024-2025 ski season, was founded on the belief that youth scholarships not only introduce participants to a lifelong sport, but also foster belonging, accomplishment and community.
Each scholarship recipient is asked to contribute a small portion of the nominal entrance fee and participate in fundraising by selling raffle tickets. In return, students receive a full Schweitzer season pass, lessons, and equipment rentals for the entire season.
NIMSEF founder and former Schweitzer ski instructor Jeff Rouleau launched the program after realizing that many area families — despite working hard — could not afford to ski.
“The resort, and really any resort, revolves around everyone doing their part, whether it’s as a waiter, a ski tech, or security,” Rouleau said. “And while it’s a great environment to work in, a large portion of the people who hold up this infrastructure can’t afford to enjoy it or expose their kids to it.”
Ninety-six percent of all donations to NIMSEF go directly to scholarships, with only minimal expenses for storage, insurance, and website upkeep. Jason Steffens, of Smalltown Designs, donated his efforts to redesign the website. Some of his children were NIMSEF scholarship recipients, who not only developed a love of skiing, but also built their own business to fund their own skiing and eventually pursued careers in the sport.
Applications for the 2025-2026 season are open through Oct. 15, 2025. To learn more or to apply, visit www.nimsef.com.
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