
Sam
Senior Yampa Valley High School
Joined Club: 4th Grade
I moved to Steamboat as a quiet, shy fourth grader, and my first day at the Club was hard because it was loud and chaotic. I soon made friends and found mentors in the staff who made me feel seen, and one staff member even taught me how to skateboard, encouraging me to try something new. Now, as a junior staff member, I try to do the same by helping kids try new things and showing them how to be calm and patient through gym games, conversations, and everyday moments—pausing, breathing, and responding thoughtfully. These are lessons I learned at the Club and practice with kids every day. I loved being part of the Club because as a high schooler it gave me something to do every day after school. In the future, I’m not totally sure what path I want to take, but my interests include mechanics, food service, and music.