FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact: Jason Scalese, Press Secretary


Email: jason.scalese@sen.ca.gov


June 17, 2026


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil Announces Access Mammoth as Mono County’s 2026 Nonprofit of the Year


SACRAMENTO, CA – Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson) is proud to announce Access Mammoth as Mono County’s 2026 Nonprofit of the Year. This recognition honors nonprofits that help individuals, families, and communities navigate grief, hardship, and change while turning those experiences into lasting positive impact through direct services, advocacy, community healing, and innovative programs.


“Transforming loss into legacy isn’t just a theme, it’s what organizations like Access Mammoth do every day,” said Senator Alvarado-Gil. “Through adaptive recreation, they help people reclaim joy, confidence, and purpose after life-altering injuries, illnesses, and profound change in our mountain communities.”


Access Mammoth embodies the 2026 theme, “Transforming Loss into Legacy,” by creating pathways for individuals and families to rediscover possibility on snowy slopes, trails, and in community. For many participants, loss comes through life-altering injuries, diagnoses, or shifts in identity. The organization turns these challenges into renewed strength, connection, and adventure through adaptive skiing, cycling, climbing, and more.


Its innovative programs restore movement, independence, and belonging. Participants, including veterans and families, share experiences that rebuild confidence and relationships. Scholarships and community support remove financial barriers so all can participate. One parent noted they “could not have afforded any time at Mammoth” without this opportunity, while another participant called it “a huge confidence boost... I know I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.”


Marisa Gierlich of Access Mammoth on receiving the honor, ““We are thrilled that the very important work of providing access to mountain sports for all is being recognized by Senator Alvarado-Gil. This award represents the tireless dedication of our staff, participants, volunteers, and entire community to the core belief that the exhilaration of outdoor experiences changes lives. Thank you for the recognition!”


Mammoth Lakes Councilmember Chris Bubser had this to say, “Rather than asking participants to leave the past behind, Access Mammoth integrates it into a new narrative of possibility. Whether someone is returning to the mountains after a life-changing injury or discovering new ways to engage outdoors, their history is respected and honored.”


Access Mammoth honors the past while building a stronger, more inclusive future. By training instructors, engaging volunteers, and advancing adaptive recreation in the Eastern Sierra, the organization fosters lasting community resilience and ensures outdoor adventure is accessible to everyone.


Senator Alvarado-Gil represents the 4th Senate District including the Counties of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Inyo, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne. https://sierrawave.net/senator-marie-alvarado-gil-announces-access-mammoth-as-mono-countys-2026-nonprofit-of-the-year/