Stratton Mountain Resort has long been involved in a variety of philanthropic initiatives. Recognizing a need in the local community, paired with the great potential for positive impact, The Stratton Foundation has spent the last 15 years supporting Vermont children facing the challenges of obesity, substance abuse, poverty and depression.

In response to Hurricane Irene, the Foundation formed the Disaster Relief Fund with the goal of raising $250,000 for the surrounding communities. An incredible outpouring of support has propelled the Foundation well past its goal and has since raised $422,842.

With the realization that children are the future and the primary influencers of change, the Stratton Mountain Foundation aims to be Vermont’s leading non-profit dedicated to helping Vermont’s youth discover all of life’s possibilities. The Foundation has worked with community organizations to expand opportunities for Vermont’s children to become socially integrated, healthier, smarter and more successful.

Some of the initiatives that the Foundation has supported include:

Tubbs Romp to Stomp Out Breast Cancer- With a gorgeous course that leads snowshoers through pleasant, wooded trails in The Sun Bowl, the Romp to Stomp is not to be missed. Vermont Romp to Stompers have an incredible passion for the cure and have consistently held the position of highest average fundraising per person of all the Romp events. Last year the Benefit was able to raise over $80,000 for breast cancer research. Choose from a 3K or 5K benefit snowshoe walk or a 3k race. This year, the event will be help on January 28, 2012.

Refuse to Use- this program supports students from grades 7 through 12 who “Refuse to Use” drugs, alcohol and tobacco. In return for their pledge, the student is rewarded with a Stratton Season Pass.

Junior Instructional Ski Program- The Junior Instructional Ski Program, or JISP, makes it possible for local kids between the ages of 8 and 18 to experience the joys of skiing at a very low cost. In addition to offering complimentary access to the mountain, instruction and instructor training, JISP also serves another important function: outfitting its members with new and used ski and snowboard equipment.