The Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is the state’s largest organization to offer year-round adaptive sports programs to people with disabilities.

It recently announced Pico Mountain will be the site of its new $1.3 million access-for-all, multi-use building. Groundbreaking is scheduled for this summer. 

The first phase of the three-phase building campaign partners with Pico Ski Education Foundation, an alpine ski racing nonprofit organization. The partnership will provide the first year-round adaptive Vermont sports center, as well as the organization’s state headquarters. 

The building, to be known as The PEAK Lodge, represents the two organizations’ values: performance, excellence, ability, and knowledge.

“By pooling financial resources and responsibility for the building, both nonprofits will be able to bring their respective organizations into the future,” says Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports Executive Director Erin Fernandez. “Most importantly, officials at Killington Resort and Pico Mountain are excited and supportive of our efforts. We couldn’t do this without them.”

Resort officials have offered the land necessary to complete the project. “We believe in the great work of both organizations and provide full support to realize their vision,” says Killington and Pico’s Tracy Taylor.

Vermont Adaptive will own the first floor of the 6,000-square-foot facility. The building is located between the existing Pico Ski Club building and the Pico Base Lodge. Buildings will be connected with access for everyone, regardless of disability. Pico Ski Education Foundation will own the second floor.

The organizations hope to raise $800,000 in cash with the balance coming through in-kind donations. Gifts and donations are being accepted in all amounts and will be recognized in the new building. They already have received donations from a variety of supporters and seed money from the Gibney Family Foundation and other businesses, as well as individuals and families.

Vermont Adaptive has more than 500 volunteers who serve clients with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities. They maintain three Vermont locations: Pico Mountain at Killington, Sugarbush Resort, and Bolton Valley Resort.

The Pico Ski Education Foundation provides young athletes opportunities that enable them to learn sound technical skills, good sportsmanship, healthy competitiveness, and an appreciation for the spirit of skiing and the mountains.

Photo: Sit skiers courtesy Maine Adaptive Sports and Recreation