When I was younger, January meant bracing cold and wild adventure, as my parents would dive into the icy waters of the Seward Polar Bear Jump-Off Festival. They’d decorate themselves, brave the winter ocean, and plunge in—all to raise money for the American Cancer Society. I thought they were a little crazy, definitely wild, and completely committed. It was their way of giving back, though at the time, I didn’t fully understand it.
(My stepdad is on the far left. "Monday").
In my early adult years, I skipped the jump. Life was a journey of discovery, and I was busy exploring my purpose, spending January riding my snowmachine in the Alaskan backcountry. But as I’ve grown, especially after experiencing the devastation of cancer up close, my perspective has shifted. I now deeply admire my parents and the community that nurtures the spirit of the Seward Polar Bear Jump-Off Festival every year.
My parents have since retired from their icy dives but continue supporting the festival in meaningful ways. My stepdad, Jeff, serves on the Board of Directors and stays involved in many ways to support the event’s growth. Last year, I had the opportunity to help out by printing shirts with another artist’s design—a playful snorkeling polar bear. This year, I was asked not only to print but to design, with full artistic freedom to create something special “the Sierra Winter Way.” It’s a privilege and an honor.
Together, we developed three unique designs: one for the brave jumpers who create teams and take the plunge, another for the dedicated volunteers, and a final design for the community to show support.
Jumper
Volunteer
General
You can find community products on my website, where 25% of all profits will go back to the Seward Polar Bear Jump Off, ensuring this great cause continues to thrive. If you’re interested in custom products with this year’s designs, reach out through my site. I’m more than happy to make magic happen.
This year, I'm also inviting anyone who wants to join my team. I’d love to jump in honor of my dad, raising money to fight the illness that left me reeling with grief. The loss is still raw. I’ve shed enough tears to fill the ocean, feeling a mix of anger and helplessness about his healthcare journey and the limits of what was available to him. I couldn’t change his outcome, but I hope to make a difference for someone else’s loved ones by supporting cancer research.
To participate in the jump, each team member must raise a minimum of $750. Every dollar counts toward changing lives, supporting families, and maybe sparing someone else from the loss that I’ve faced. It’s a cause I’m willing to dive into—quite literally—with every bit of passion I have.
Thank you for being part of the Sierra Winter Way. Through artwork, community, vulnerability, and connection, I hope to leave a positive mark. Your support allows me to pursue my purpose, and together, I believe we can make a difference.
Sierra Winter Owner & Designer | Artwork by Sierra Winter ✉️ Email: sierrawintersmith@outlook.com 🌐 Website: www.artworkbysierrawinter.com 📞 Phone: 1-907-491-5016 (text preferred due to limited cell service)
Offering custom wrap designs, print products, and personalized artwork. Specializing in snowmobile wraps, swag, branding, and creative design solutions to bring your ideas to life. Design it the Sierra Winter Way.
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