Sundown Mountain Resort Raises Nearly $10k for United Way

Mark Gordon, owner of Sundown Mountain Resort, has always believed the mountain is more than just a place to ski, it’s a place where generations of memories are made. He wanted to find a way to open that experience to more families while also giving back to the community that has supported Sundown for so many years. His vision was simple but powerful: make skiing and snowboarding more accessible, and use that opportunity to create meaningful change for neighbors who need it most.

On Friday, February 5, that vision became reality. The team at Sundown slashed lift ticket prices and removed one of the biggest barriers for first-time skiers and snowboarders by making equipment rental completely free. Behind every ticket purchased was an even greater purpose. Sundown committed to donating half of each ticket to United Way, turning a day on the slopes into an investment in the community.

From morning through the evening hours, hundreds of participants from across the tri-state area arrived—families helping children into their first pair of boots, teenagers laughing as they learned together, and longtime skiers sharing their love of the sport with friends. The hill was alive with energy, encouragementand joy. Inside, the lodge was filled with warm conversations, full tables, and a shared sense that something special was happening.

By the end of the day, nearly $10,000 had been raised to help prevent and reduce poverty in our community. But the impact went far beyond the dollars. Because of Mark’s leadership and the generosity of the Sundown team, more people experienced the mountain, more families created lasting memories, and our community moved one step closer to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive. It was a powerful reminder that when local businesses lead with heart, they don’t just open their doors, they open possibilities.