Unlikely Allies: How a Golf Course and Bakery are Changing the Face of Healthcare in Snowmass

Nestled in the heart of Snowmass, Colorado lies the picturesque Snowmass Golf Course. This 18-hole course has been providing golfers with stunning views and challenging holes since it opened in 1970. While the course itself is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts, the adjacent Paradise Bakery is a must-visit for foodies. Known for their freshly-baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee, this local favorite is the perfect pit stop for a quick snack or lunch.

But what connects these two seemingly unrelated attractions? The answer lies in the Aspen Institute Health, Medicine & Society Program. This program, founded in 2011, aims to address the complex challenges facing healthcare today. Through research, education, and community outreach, the program seeks to improve the overall health and well-being of individuals and communities.

So how does a golf course and bakery fit into this? The Snowmass Golf Course and Paradise Bakery are both supporters of the Health, Medicine & Society Program. The golf course hosts an annual charity golf tournament, with proceeds benefiting the program. And the bakery donates a portion of their profits to the program each year.

But the connection goes deeper than just financial support. Both the golf course and bakery prioritize health and wellness in their own unique ways. The golf course offers fitness classes and yoga sessions, promoting physical activity and mindfulness. And the bakery uses locally-sourced, organic ingredients, promoting a healthy and sustainable food system.

By supporting the Health, Medicine & Society Program, the Snowmass Golf Course and Paradise Bakery are not only giving back to their community, but also promoting a larger goal of health and wellness for all. As the program’s director, Dr. Ruth Katz, stated, “We cannot achieve health equity without addressing the social determinants of health, such as access to healthy food and opportunities for physical activity.”

In conclusion, while the Snowmass Golf Course and Paradise Bakery may seem like two separate entities, they are both connected by their support of the Aspen Institute Health, Medicine & Society Program and their commitment to promoting health and wellness. So next time you’re in Snowmass, be sure to hit the links and grab a bite at the bakery knowing that you’re supporting a larger mission of improving healthcare for all.