From the City
to the Mountain

Hoods to Woods connects NYC youth to free snowboarding programs, outdoor education, and community experiences that open doors beyond the city.

Want to get involved? Become a Volunteer

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Brian Paupaw

Co-Founder & Executive Director
Lifelong NYC resident and snowboarder. Brian started HTW to share the outdoors with young people from his community.

Omar Diaz

Co-Founder & Program Director
Youth development leader with deep roots in outdoor education. Omar shapes HTW’s programs and community partnerships.

From the City
to the Mountain

Hoods to Woods connects NYC youth to free snowboarding programs, outdoor education, and community experiences that open doors beyond the city.

Want to get involved? Become a Volunteer

What We Do

Our Programs

We provide free snowboarding trips, outdoor education, and community based youth programs for NYC students and families.

Hoods to Woods participants together on the mountain

Winter Snowboarding

Free trips to Mountain Creek Resort with transportation, gear, lessons, and lift tickets included.

Indoor Snow at Big SNOW

Year-round snowboarding at Big SNOW American Dream so youth can ride no matter the season.

Outdoor Education

Hands-on workshops that build outdoor skills and connect young people with nature.

Overnight Camping

Multi-day wilderness experiences that build resilience, teamwork, and a deeper connection to nature.

Our Impact

Impact in Action

For 15 years, Hoods to Woods has connected NYC youth to snowboarding and the outdoors, building access and community along the way.

400+YOUTH SERVED
15YEARS STRONG
50+WINTER TRIPS
100%FREE PROGRAMS
Hoods to Woods participants preparing to snowboard
Before Hoods to Woods, I never saw myself on a snowboard or in the mountains. The program opened my eyes to a whole different world and gave me confidence I still carry with me.
– HTW Alumni
Hoods to Woods gave my child more than a trip. It gave them confidence, community, and the chance to experience something truly new.
– HTW Parent
Our Team

Meet the Founders

Hoods to Woods was started by two NYC snowboarders who wanted to connect young people from their community to the outdoors.

Brian Paupaw

Brian Paupaw

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Lifelong NYC resident and snowboarder. Brian started HTW to share the outdoors with young people from his community.

I know what it means to grow up without easy access to the outdoors. Hoods to Woods exists so our youth can see that those spaces belong to them too.— Brian
Omar Diaz

Omar Diaz

Co-Founder & Program Director

Youth development leader with deep roots in outdoor education. Omar shapes HTW’s programs and community partnerships.

When you share what changed your life with young people who need it, that becomes purpose.— Omar
Take Action

How You Can Help

Your support helps NYC youth experience the outdoors and become part of a community that believes in them.

Donate

Your contribution funds transportation, equipment, and instruction for NYC youth.

GIVE NOW

Volunteer

Join us as a trip chaperone, mentor, or event volunteer.

CONTACT US

Partner With Us

Corporate and brand partners help us reach more young people.

LEARN MORE

Shop HTW Merch

Support the mission with official Hoods to Woods gear.

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