Donate Ski Gear for Tax Breaks and Goodwill

Boulder, CO, Oct. 25, 2000–Too much winter equipment cluttering your closet? Need to make room for this year’s gear? No problem. The annual Donate-a-Ski/Donate-a-Board program will accept your donations and turn them over to charitable organizations across the country. You can even get a tax break to help purchase new gear!

Last year, over 90 tons of clothing and equipment were collected and distributed to 22 organizations, including 71 Special Olympics chapters. This year promises even more goods, possibly over 100 tons worth of skis, boards, and apparel. “We’re having a great launch already,” reports Jeanne Mattie, a spokesperson for Donate-a-Ski.

Now in its third year, Donate-a-Ski is expanding the scope of their programs and distribution. Community groups across the country have joined the list of organizations supplied by Donate-a-Ski. The Cincinnati Recreation Commission and a school group for high-risk teens are among those newly benefiting from the drive.

Donate-a-Ski’s national spokesperson, Billy Kidd, is facilitating Journey into Wellness, a program on a reservation in Fort Duschesne, UT that will help Native American youth enjoy winter recreation. The Sims and Ride companies have donated 200 pairs of boots, 50 boards, and even new clothing to aid the effort.

A large portion of the equipment collected this year will go to the 2001 International Special Olympic Games in Alaska. The international nature of the Games will draw athletes from around the globe, including some who have never seen snow. Donate-a-Ski will outfit both competitors and non-competitors. “We hope to get a couple African athletes skiing,” said Mattie.

More than 200 locations, mostly ski shops, across the country accept donated clothing and gear. Donors will receive a receipt for tax deduction. The program runs from October 7 through December 31, 2000. To find a participating shop near you or to learn more about the Donate-a-Ski program, call (800) 639-2761.