This winter, Summit Northwest Ministries hosted the Jam 4 Cans Ski and Snowboard Charity Rail Jam Series, continuing a 17-year tradition of combining high-octane snow sports with community outreach.
Jam 4 Cans is a competition series designed to showcase regional ski and snowboard talent while benefiting local food banks. This year, two high-energy events were held — the first on Jan. 31, 2026 at Tobler Marina in Hayden, Idaho, and the second on Feb. 7, 2026 at Summit Northwest Ministries in Post Falls, Idaho.
The two events collectively brought in more than 1,500 pounds of food for local food banks, directly benefiting families in need throughout the region. It also gave members from Summit Northwest Ministries a chance to positively impact local ski and snowboard culture by interacting with athletes and their families. Members were encouraged to meet riders and their families, learn their story and, when appropriate, invite them to connect with the Summit Northwest Ministries community.
“Events like Jam 4 Cans are a good example of how the gospel travels through relationships,” said David Wolf, a volunteer at the event for the last two years. “When we gather around something fun and meaningful, it opens doors for real conversations and lasting connections.”
Terry McLeod, experienced emcee, kept the crowd energized and entertained. Having been involved with Jam 4 Cans for more than 15 years, McLeod once again brought enthusiasm, humor and passion to the microphone while simultaneously calling the local ski and snowboard community to think about those in need.
“I feel my job is to help spectators feel like the interaction they are having that evening with a Christian community is actually a good and fun thing,” said McLeod. “And maybe it shapes their opinion a bit more favorably about the role of the church in our community.”
Despite rainy weather during the Post Falls event, a strong and spirited crowd turned out for both rail jams to support the riders. Their energy fueled competitors ranging from talented amateurs to local professionals. Both events showcased a diverse group of athletes from across the region, highlighting the depth of skill and passion within the local ski and snowboard community.
Transforming two bare downtown parking lots into winter terrain parks is no small feat. More than 100 yards of snow were brought in for each event and carefully shaped using Jam 4 Cans' custom infrastructure to create a fully functional ski and snowboard terrain park.
Summit Northwest Ministries also brought in food trucks, a bounce house and a slide to the Post Falls event to create something for the whole family. There were numerous giveaways to riders and spectators alike and a raffle of items provided by sponsors, with proceeds going to help local food banks.
The ministry goes beyond single events. Several members are active skiers and find opportunities to pray with people on the slopes, encourage young Christian riders in their faith and provide mentorship on chairlift rides.
With two successful events completed and a meaningful impact made in the community, the 17th year of Jam 4 Cans once again demonstrated how skiing and snowboarding can be used as powerful tools for connection, generosity and gospel influence — rather than just competition.
More information on Jam 4 Cans can be found at jam4cans.com.
Ethan Bruse balances on rails.
Seth Dye performs a backflip on the Jam 4 Cans course.
