Is welfare and other government programs charity?  I know a lot of people who are on unemployment, welfare, food stamp, etc. that dont absolutely need it. I admit they are taking advantage of the system.  But what it really comes down to is the idiot running our country that has passed laws and such that allow people to get these types of programs.  Its our politicians that have created helped to create this problem.
As well, I have lived in Breck for awhile, granted im not your true ski "bum": I still get close to a hundred days in each year though, but i make plenty enough to pay back student loans, car loans, rent, and everything else i need. I work about 65 hours a week between two jobs but still have two full days off to ski and plenty of days where i can ski before work.  Just cause your living in a mountain town and ski most days of the week doesnt mean you're a worthless ski bum who doesnt contribute to society.  Currently, im not using my degree but I will sacrifice certain things to live in a better place.  I could use my degree and work in some shitty city or i could not use it, still make money, and live somewhere I love to be.