George and Marian Wafer, local residents and founders of the Wafer Family Foundation, are proud to host the Burke Mountain Sled Dog Dash.  Although raising funds to help support children is something they are familiar with, it usually takes the form of celebrity golf tournaments. Hosting their first Sled Dog Dash in March, of 2007, was an exciting new endeavour which required a unique skill set. Therefore, the Wafer's have teamed up with the Burke Mountain Ski Area, New England Sled Dog Club, and Kingdom Trails to host these events.

In 2008, still in just its second edition, the race drew over 99 teams making it one of the largest sprint races in the United States. Moreover, the Wafer's met their goal to contribute to the children of the Northeast Kingdom and along with long-time friend, retired NY Islander, and NHL Hall of Famer, Clark Gilles, they were able to raise $25,000. The funds generated in the last two years have already allowed the Wafer Family foundation to help build a playground, insulate outdoor facilities for ice skating, contribute to a shelter for abused families, and sponsor youth athletic teams. The Wafer's continue to learn from this event and are committed to making each edition bigger and better!