Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort has always put the environment first, and now as the mountain is a part of Vail Resorts, it seems that initiative is just getting bigger.
Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort continues to be brought into the fold of the Vail Resorts family of mountain resorts since the acquisition back in late October, one of the initiatives we've all be interested in as employees, is finding out how the larger company gives back to the local community and works to preserve and protect the mountain environments in which we all live, work and most importantly, play!
Well, the wait is over! Vail Resorts recently filled our team in as to how we can give back as one overarching company, as a resort, and as individuals, to help make a difference in the community.
Vail Resorts Echo is the company's sustainability program, and was designed to encompass Vail Resorts' commitment to the environment, charitable giving and also provide a way to offer employees an opportunity to collectively help with community volunteer projects.
To kick off the program at Northstar $10,000 grants were given to both the Truckee River Watershed Council and Excellence in Education -- two local non-profit organizations that are important to the resort, the local community, and fit within the areas of focus that Echo contributes - youth and environment.
A scholarship program was also introduced for employees with dependants who are graduating from high school and pursuing higher education that, starting in the spring of 2012, will provide $20,000 in scholarships. And, it was announced that Vail Resorts Echo Day, a company-wide volunteer day where employees and their families can volunteer their time to help with a community project, will include Northstar beginning this fall!
Now, we've just got to identify the community project we're going to tackle...
Want to know more about Vail Resorts Echo? Check out vailresortsecho.com.
-- Jessica Van Pernis