KILLINGTON, Vermont — Pico Mountain is happy to announce a partnership with the United Way of Rutland County for the weekend of December 18-20. The United Way will receive 100 percent of all donations made.

Guests who donate $20 or more to the United Way will receive a free Pico Express Card, a $26 value. Express Card holders receive $10 to $18 savings on their lift tickets every day of the season, and will enjoy direct-to-lift access – no waiting at the ticket window necessary. Donations will be accepted at the Pico Mountain ticket office throughout the weekend.

“It’s a perfect partnership,” says Chuck Sharp, Executive Director of the Rutland United Way. “Pico and the United Way are both a big part of the Rutland community, so it’s great to be able to work together again.”

The United Way of Rutland County is celebrating its 66th year as one of 1,400 nationwide non-profit chapters dedicated to serving their communities. Last year’s fundraising weekend at Pico Mountain raised almost $3,300 for the Rutland Chapter, aiding them as they continue to serve local children and families in need.

Pico Mountain will be opening for the 2009-10 season on December 12, 2009. Lift hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and holidays. Visit www.PicoMountain.com for real-time updates on current snow conditions.

About Pico Mountain:

With more vertical drop than 80 percent of New England mountains, Pico Mountain offers mogul trails, glades, groomed cruisers and the new Triple Slope Terrain Park, all of which lead back to one classically-styled Vermont base lodge. First-timers can enjoy gentle learning trails and a new tow-rope, while more advanced skiers and snowboarders will enjoy finding their way into the glades on a fresh powder day. Our 50 trails, 214 skiable acres and seven lifts (including two high-speed quads) mean our slopes are never crowded and our guests make the most out of their days. Pico – Big Mountain Terrain, Small Mountain Charm. www.PicoMountain.com.