OUR STORY
About the Program
Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Sundance Mountain Resort offers a uniquely restorative setting. Its breathtaking landscapes, world-class amenities, and legacy of artistic inspiration create the perfect environment for healing and renewal. From the quiet power of a snow-covered peak to the vibrant energy of a summer meadow, Sundance provides the backdrop for transformation.
Who We Are
Our Mission
The Mountain Veteran Program (MVP) empowers veterans living with the lasting impacts of their service and their families to heal, connect, and rediscover purpose through year-round, transformative experiences at Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah.
Our Vision
A community where every veteran living with the lasting impacts of their service and their family experiences the healing power of the mountains — where connection, resilience, and the magic of Sundance Resort inspire renewed purpose and a future filled with strength and possibility.
What We Do
MVP offers cost-free, multi-day immersive programs designed to help veterans living with the lasting impacts of their service and their families reconnect, recharge, and rediscover purpose. Every program is set against the stunning alpine backdrop of Sundance Mountain Resort and combines therapeutic outdoor adventure with intentional wellness, creative expression, and community.
Whether it’s carving through fresh powder in winter, casting a fly line into a mountain stream in summer, or finding stillness in a mountaintop yoga session, each experience is crafted to build confidence, foster resilience, and create meaningful connections that last well beyond the trip.
Our Story
MVP was founded to bring proven mountain-based healing to Utah — honoring the service and sacrifice of the nation's veterans through the restorative power of the Wasatch Range. By combining the magic of Sundance Resort with a commitment to family inclusion, adaptive programming, and community support, MVP strives to offer experiences that honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.
Why Sundance
Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Sundance Mountain Resort offers a uniquely restorative setting. Its breathtaking landscapes, world-class amenities, and legacy of artistic inspiration create the perfect environment for healing and renewal. From the quiet power of a snow-covered peak to the vibrant energy of a summer meadow, Sundance provides the backdrop for transformation.
Our Core Values
Healing Through Nature
The mountains have the power to restore what feels lost. Every program is designed around the therapeutic benefits of outdoor adventure and alpine environments.
Family Inclusion
Healing doesn’t happen in isolation. We welcome veterans and their families to experience renewal together.
Adaptive & Inclusive
Every ability level is supported. Activities are adapted so every participant can fully engage and build confidence.
Community & Connection
Shared experiences in the mountains forge bonds that last. Our programs create space for authentic connection and mutual support.
Cost-Free Access
Participation should never be a barrier. All MVP programs are provided at no cost to participating veterans and their guests.
Renewed Purpose
Beyond recreation, we aim to help participants rediscover strength, resilience, and a sense of possibility for the future.
Leadership
Staff
Christine Russ
Executive Director
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Christine Russ was drawn to Utah by the opportunity to lead the Mountain Veteran Program at Sundance Mountain Resort as the Executive Director. After serving as an Army officer, she found a new mission creating healing experiences that help wounded veterans and their loved ones reconnect through adventure, community, and the outdoors.
Whether hiking, trail running, or simply taking in the mountains, Christine believes nature has a unique way of healing, bringing people together, and building resilience. She is honored to continue serving the veteran community in this new chapter.
Peter Parker
Program Manager
Peter Parker moved to Utah in 2021 from his hometown of Rochester, NY. He is happiest in the mountains - whether skiing, hiking, or simply taking in the fresh air that only the outdoors can offer.
As Program Manager for the Mountain Veteran Program at Sundance Mountain Resort, he is privileged to combine that love of the mountains with hearing the stories from the veteran guests that attend. Every veteran brings a unique journey and helping to create experiences where they can find adventure, community, and a sense of belonging is rewarding and invigorating.
Having spent 20 years as a National Ski Patroller working with like-minded individuals who enjoy not only sharing their love for skiing but also providing care to those in need, Peter discovered working with the Mountain Veteran Program the perfect match for his background, interests, and enthusiasm for spending time with interesting, genuine people.