The Wesleyan Connection

At right, Jeff Gilarde, director of scientific imaging for the Biology Department, helps children with physical disabilities learn to ski through the Skiers Unlimited organization. Skiers Unlimited is a long-term program run by Connecticut Children's Medical Center in Newington, Conn. He assists children at Mount Southington eight times each ski season.

Gilarde has volunteered for Skiers Unlimited for more than 22 years. "My reason to volunter for this and others is to make the world a better place," he says.

Joel LaBella, facilities manager for the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department, also volunteers for Skiers Unlimited. Gilarde asked him to join the program 20 years ago. Here, he helps a young child up the lift.

... and down the hill!