LUDLOW, Vt. – With the memory of Tropical Storm Irene still fresh in their minds, Vermonters are especially empathetic to their southern neighbors who are dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. In an effort to assist those friends and neighbors, Okemo Mountain Resort presented The American Red Cross with a $10,000 donation directed toward storm-victim recovery. In addition, Okemo is extending a donation challenge to its loyal skiers and riders over Thanksgiving Weekend. At a time when American families are reflecting on the things they are most thankful for, Okemo will reward generosity directed toward those less-fortunate families affected by Hurricane Sandy. The first 1,000 people who make a donation of at least $50, on Friday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 25, will receive one complimentary one-day adult lift ticket valid for redemption Monday through Friday, non-holiday, during the 2012/2013 winter season. Complimentary tickets will be limited to one ticket per donation.

“This is a great way for people to contribute to their neighbors in need,” said Okemo Mountain Resort VP and General Manager Bruce Schmidt. “Many of our skiing and riding guests who are now being affected by the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy were the first ones to donate and support Vermont after Hurricane Irene. Okemo is proud to support those in need now and we are hopeful to reach our goal of raising $50,000 for the victims of Sandy.”

Okemo is also assisting those affected directly by the storm by offering 30 percent off lodging accommodations at Okemo Mountain Resort through Nov. 21.

Okemo continues to support local families in need as well. On Saturday, Dec. 15, Okemo Mountain Resort will host its annual Cares and Shares Food Drive. When skiers and snowboarders donate at least five non-perishable food items, a new child’s toy or new clothing item, their kindness will be rewarded with a discounted day of skiing and riding at Okemo that same day. Okemo Mountain Ambassadors will be accepting donations in the Clock Tower base area and Jackson Gore base area between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Volunteers from the Black River Good Neighbor Services Christmas Basket Program will help distribute the donated items to needy families in time for the holidays. In addition to gathering donations for the Cares and Shares Food Drive, Okemo is donating 100 frozen turkeys to be included in the holiday food baskets.

For more information about Okemo Mountain Resort, please call (802) 228-1600 or visit okemo.com.