Local non-profit Zero Ceiling is ramping up for a busy summer season, unveiling an expanded lineup of youth programming, community events and a donation-matching campaign designed to double support for its life-changing initiatives.
The Whistler-based organization has worked with marginalized youth from the Sea to Sky corridor and Metro Vancouver since 1997, providing housing, employment training, outdoor adventures and long-term support as young people transition into adulthood.
“This June, we’re saying it loud and clear: We’re still here, still having fun, and still building a community where every youth belongs,” the organization said in a release.
Zero Ceiling’s programs aim to do more than meet basic needs. Each year, the organization facilitates thousands of days of adventure on Whistler Blackcomb, provides thousands of nights of safe housing, and delivers thousands of hours of paid work experience and one-on-one support—giving youth the tools they need to thrive and contribute to their communities.
This summer, four new participants will enter Zero Ceiling’s long-term housing and employment program, joining seven others already working to build stability and skills in Whistler. At the same time, the organization is expanding its free outdoor recreation offerings, including weekly hiking sessions every Wednesday starting June 11 and mountain biking on Thursdays beginning June 12. The season runs until early September and is expected to introduce up to 200 young people to the mountains—many of them for the first time.
None of it would be possible, the organization noted, without the support of partners including Whistler Blackcomb, the EpicPromise Foundation and the Whistler Community Foundation.
To help fund its programming, Zero Ceiling is launching a summer donation-matching campaign. An anonymous donor has pledged to match the first $15,000 raised, doubling the total impact to $30,000. Community members can donate online at zeroceiling.org until June 30 to take advantage of the match.
Several community events are also planned throughout the season. A private community barbecue on June 11 will celebrate the past year’s accomplishments. On June 24, a Creekbread fundraiser will direct a portion of each pizza sale to Zero Ceiling’s programs. From June through August, in-store donations can be made at evo Village Sports and evo Backcountry. And on Aug. 27, the All Aboard Skate Jam will return to Whistler Skate Park, offering an all-ages celebration with friendly competitions, music by DJ Praiz and a public barbecue.
For those unable to attend, the organization encourages supporters to visit its redesigned website and sign up for updates on upcoming events and initiatives.
For more information or to donate, visit zeroceiling.org.
Editor's note, June 9, 2025: This article has been updated to include a new date for the fundraiser at Creekbread.
