About Us
Photo: Nat Segal
is a non-profit society in Revelstoke, BC dedicated to fostering inclusive mountain culture. We offer backcountry programs including ski touring, split-boarding, climbing and mountaineering. Our vision is that Revelstoke is a place where everyone can feel and be safe to enjoy all the mountains have to offer in all seasons.
Board of Directors
We are a group of mountain lovers who are passionate about the connections that mountain environments enable. We founded Open Mountains Project in the summer of 2016 out of our desires to see a resilient, inclusive mountain-based community grow in Revelstoke. This project was born on a skin track in Rogers Pass, and is still evolving through conversations on skis, bikes, in canoes, on the rock, or on trail runs, and also the occasional sit down meeting.
Rachel Reimer she/they
Executive Director
Rachel founded Open Mountains Project in 2016. She thrives most while skiing and climbing in the backcountry. Work with refugee and inner city youth and women affected by violence from conflict formed her early work life. Rachel is a yoga teacher, offers mindfulness meditation, and believes in the resilience and inherent goodness and strength that resides in every person. Adventure in the mountain environment as a tool for personal growth and connection is a key aspect of who she is, and she initiated the Open Mountains Project as a way of sharing this with a community she loves. Rachel holds a M.A. in Leadership Studies and is currently pursuing her PhD while also taking part in the ACMG apprentice ski guide program.
David Reimer he/him
Treasurer
From early days in the lakes of Muskoka, Ontario, David has built a life that balances big-city business and backwoods roots. Based north of Toronto, Ontario, David (a ‘C’-suite executive, while not in his canoe) supports Open Mountains to live its values without sacrificing financial sustainability.
Jeff Mitchell he/him
Head of Safety + Risk Management and Board Member
Jeff is an IFMGA Mountain Guide and has been skiing, climbing, and biking in Revelstoke since 2005. Originally from the East Coast of Canada, he followed his dreams to the mountains and worked hard to build an all-mountain skillset. Jeff understands the value of a supportive mountain community to achieve the highest goals. Previously working as Operations Director Jeff has led the program in both winter and summer since its inception. Jeff is now overseeing the Risk & Safety of the program in collaboration with the Operations Manager.
Adele Lay she/her
Board Member and Lawyer
Adele is a regular visitor to Revelstoke, and a resident of Victoria, BC, where she combines her love of the mountains with her love of helping people through her law degree. She is a former national competitor in nordic skiing, and brings a dedication and vision to Open Mountains Project that mirrors her commitment to living a full mountain life. She is an avid mountain biker, trail runner, backcountry skier, nordic skier, and all-around mountain athlete.
Deanne Breithack she/her
Board Member
Deanne is a mountain biker, splitboarder, former wildland fire crew leader, and all-around mountain woman who calls Revelstoke home. Her previous work with youth includes developing programming for camps with the town of Banff, and coaching soccer in Revelstoke.
Kristy Cameron she/her
Board Member
Kristy is an all-round mountain person, mother, and member of our medical emergency response community in Revelstoke. Her emergency medical expertise helps guide our risk management in backcountry adventures. She is also an excellent source of wisdom on how to raise youth in our town! We appreciate her hard work.
Staff
Ali Paul she/her
Operations Manager
Ali has lived and worked in mountain towns in various capacities for the past six years and typically spends her free time skiing or mountain biking with friends depending on the season. With a background in music therapy and an emphasis on children and youth mental health, she is shifting into the climate space and is currently studying a Master of Arts in Climate Action Leadership. Ali has experience working in her communities in climate action, mental health, and LGBTQIA2S+ spaces. As a queer person, Ali is passionate about inclusive mountain culture and working to create positive change.
Nat Segal she /her
Communications and Community Outreach
Nat is a professional skier, apprentice ACMG Hiking Guide and freeride/freestyle ski coach based in Revelstoke since 2018. Originally from Melbourne, AUS, her competitive freeride ski career led her to travel the world as professional athlete where she gained experience in branding, marketing and communications. Nat holds a Bachelor in Fine Arts and has over five years experience in film production and content creation. Nat strongly believes that the mountains are for everyone and creating inclusive culture as well as accessibility to mountain sports through education should be a priority for the mountain community.