Nate Chute Foundation hosts discussion on mountain town mental health

The Nate Chute Foundation will host “Paradise Paradox,” a film screening event, marking the beginning of the 25th annual Nate Chute Banked Slalom and Boardercross weekend. Scheduled for Thursday, March 14, at 6 p.m. at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center, this event aims to support, educate, and empower communities in advocating mental wellness and reducing suicide.

"The Paradise Paradox" is a groundbreaking documentary executive produced by Olympic ski racing legend Bode Miller and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Brett Rapkin. The film examines the mental health crisis in America's mountain towns and discusses innovative solutions emerging in response. "The Paradise Paradox" talks about the root causes of mental health challenges in the snow sports industry and beyond, highlighting stories from individuals like ski patrollers and young snowboarders striving to improve their communities.

Following the screening, a panel discussion will feature local professionals: Nick Polumbus, CEO of Whitefish Mountain Resort; Dr. Doug Muir, Logan Health Behavioral Health; Sarah Gehl, Crisis Care Provider, Flathead City-County Health Department; Jenny Cloutier, Nate Chute Foundation Program Director and former ski patroller for Whitefish Mountain Resort; Dylan Parr: Local Snowboarder, Stumptown Snowboards.

Moderated by Kacy Howard of the Nate Chute Foundation, the discussion aims to delve into the film's themes and explore local resources and actionable solutions to promote mental well-being in our community.

The 25th Annual Nate Chute Banked Slalom and Boardercross, sponsored by Whitefish Mountain Resort and Stumptown Snowboards, is a contest for a cause. It is a tribute to Nate and others lost, a reminder of the mental health challenges we all face, and a source of inspiration for promoting mental wellness. It also provides a platform to raise awareness and generate funds for the Nate Chute Foundation. This year, a donor has offered a dollar-for-dollar match, up to $25,000, doubling the impact of donations. Every year over a dozen competitors create their campaigns to help support NCF. Top fundraisers will receive prizes and automatic entry into next year's event, which usually sells out within hours of opening. Other fundraisers surround the snowboard contest, including a Pint Night and Auction at Blackstar Brewpub on Friday, March 15 from 5-9 p.m. and events at Bonsai Brewing Project and the Great Northern Bar on Saturday night. 

"We're excited to bring this type of film to the Flathead and to combine the energy of the Nate Chute Banked Slalom and Boardercross with a discussion on mental wellness," said Corrie Holloway, Community Outreach Coordinator of the Nate Chute Foundation. "Together, we can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and drive positive change in our community."

The film screening and panel discussion are free and open to the public. The event is recommended for mature audiences due to the topics covered.