RENO, Nev. – Sky Tavern announces the launch of its holiday fundraising campaign, It’s NOT a Dream, supporting its youth scholarship fund. The organization also formally announces Chris “Toph” Brown as its CEO/Executive Director, reinforcing a renewed commitment to access, affordability, and community-led recreation.
For more than 70 years, Sky Tavern has offered thousands of youth the chance to learn to ski, ride, and develop outdoor skills at a fraction of the true cost. The actual cost for a winter program participant exceeds $1,000 per season, yet families pay only a small portion—and many pay nothing at all. Every child at Sky Tavern receives some level of scholarship, made possible entirely through donor support, community involvement, and volunteerism.
“We scholarship everyone at some level based on the support we receive,” said Brown. “Many families pay reduced costs, and depending on circumstances, some pay nothing at all. As a father and someone who has worked in the ski industry for years, I know how expensive skiing has become. Watching families access this sport because the community chooses to support them—that hits my heart.”
Brown, who has served in leadership roles at western mountain resorts, said his commitment to Sky Tavern stems from the culture that makes it unlike any other ski program in the country.
“When I first came to Sky Tavern nearly two years ago, what sold me wasn’t the mountain— it was the people, the families showing up, the volunteers teaching lessons, and the shared belief that every kid should have access to winter recreation,” Brown said. “My goal is not to change what makes Sky Tavern special, but to lean into what’s already been built.”
“Toph has already proven his ability to lead with clarity, discipline, and a deep commitment to our mission,” said Board Chairman Yale Spina. “Elevating Toph to CEO and Executive Director reflects both his performance and the trust he has earned across the organization. His understanding of the complexity of operating a mountain alongside one of the region’s longest-standing nonprofits makes him the right leader at the right moment for Sky Tavern’s future.”
The “It’s NOT a Dream” campaign is a call to the community to ensure skiing and snowboarding remain accessible in a time of escalating participation costs nationwide.
Donations directly support operational costs, programming, and instruction so children can experience the outdoors— not just imagine it.
“Sky Tavern is the most affordable, dedicated, and community-powered program in this region. If you want to help, spread the word, donate, or bring someone new. That support is how we make dreams become reality,” said Brown.
How to Support “It’s NOT a Dream”
Donations of any size make an immediate difference and help remove the barrier to outdoor recreation for all. To give or learn more, visit www.skytavern.org.
Sky Tavern is a 510c3 sports recreation organization located in Reno, NV, with a mission to provide Outdoor Recreation for All. Season passes are on sale now for the marquee Family First Learn to Ski & Ride program.
