Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month was started in 2008 when resort associations in just a couple of states decided to launch their state-wide programs. The NYS governor, along with 15 others proclaimed January as the time to learn how to ski or snowboard and in some states, learning programs for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are part of the initiative. Now, Learn to Ski and Snowboard is a national initiative that partners with national, regional and state associations that are part of the ski and snowboard industry, the industry trade media and individual resorts or companies that service the industry. Today, more than 300 ski and snowboard areas throughout the U.S. offer free and reasonably priced lesson programs through January or the entire ski season as part of this initiative to get more Americans on the slopes. Our goal is to get more American families on the slopes, enjoying a healthy winter lifestyle.