Skiers and snowboarders are invited to spend a fun-filled day on the slopes while raising money for YES to support positive Boston youth experiences.

Highlights of the day’s activities include the following:

• Skiers and snowboarders will form four-person teams (individuals are also welcome and will be placed on a team) for a fun race down a NASTAR course. To participate, teams must raise or contribute at least $300 while individuals must raise or contribute $80.
• Prizes will be awarded to the fastest teams, those that raise the most money and the one that demonstrates “YES I Can” effort. For each additional $200 raised by a team, one second will be deducted from the team time, so snow sport prowess isn’t necessary.
• The price of registration includes participation in the race, a lift ticket, lunch and a goody bag.
• Swix will provide free ski and snowboard waxing to participants outside the base lodge.
• There will be a slope-side barbeque for families and friends.
• All day, YES will also host a live auction and Wacusett Mountain will host a pond-skimming contest.

Online Auction

In addition, from March 1, 2006 through March 6, YES will sponsor an online auction at www.YES-auction.com Items to be auctioned will include ski equipment and season passes, vacations and many others. All money raised will support Youth Enrichment Services of Boston.

“The Massachusetts Snow Challenge is a great way for skiers and snowboarders to spend a day with their friends, co-workers, club members or family while raising money for a good cause,” said Mary Williams, president of YES. “And the beautiful part is that the focus is on having fun. Whether you are an experienced or beginner snow sport enthusiast, this event is for you.”

For information on how to become a sponsor of the event or to contribute items for the online or onsite auctions, please contact Leonard Lee at 617-267-5877, x20. To sign up as a participant, please go to w.masssnowchallenge.comor call 617-267-5877, x16.

Event sponsors include Wachusett Mountain, The Boston Beer Company, The Boston Globe Foundation and Mountain Dogs Alpine Outfitters.

About Youth Enrichment Services (www.yeskids.org)

Since its founding in 1968, Youth Enrichment Services (YES) has helped more than 100,000 low- and moderate-income Boston area youth build self-esteem and foster life-long respect for themselves, others and the environment through participation in outdoor and practical learning activities. Research shows that YES kids who remain committed to the program over time -- serving as junior counselors and volunteers -- graduate high school, attend college and obtain jobs at a higher rate than their peers. YES also helps local youth agencies and schools offer challenging programs to reward and motivate their members/students. YES is unique in taking kids out of their familiar urban environment and challenging them with both summer and winter outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking and biking. YES is a 501(c)3 educational institution and is registered with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office of Public Charities